2. Maintaining Tire Health
Why It’s Important:
Proper tire maintenance ensures safety, improves fuel efficiency, and extends tire life.
Checking Tire Pressure:
- Use a Tire Gauge: Remove the valve cap and press the gauge onto the valve stem. Check the reading and compare it to the recommended pressure (usually found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame).
- Adjust Pressure: If needed, use an air compressor to inflate or deflate tires to the correct level.
Measuring Tread Depth:
- Use a Tread Depth Gauge: Insert the gauge into the tread grooves. A reading below 2/32 of an inch means it’s time to replace your tires.
Rotating Tires:
- Follow a Pattern: Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the recommended rotation pattern. Typically, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,000 miles.