A flat tire is a major inconvenience. It may happen to even an experienced driver if you have not taken enough care of the tires. There are some ways you can maintain your tires to prevent the car turning into a road hazard.
- Always check tire pressure: A tire should not be either underinflated or overinflated. Underinflated tires cause friction, the tires get excessively inflated and the tires may blowout. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, are susceptible to damage by potholes and bumpy roads. This is why it is very important to check the tire pressure at least twice a month. You can use an air pressure gauge at a fuel station or go to a professional. Check your tire pressure against the manufacturer's recommendation to confirm.
- Know your tires recommended load rating: Be careful to ensure that you do not exceed the recommended load rating of your car. The rating can be found at the center of the tire sidewall. Overloading your car causes friction and overheating resulting in a blowout or an eventual flat tire.
- Check the spare: Check the spare tire to make sure it is ready for use when required. Check its air pressure, the treads and the walls for any defect. If it is defective, replace it immediately, you do not know when it will be required.
- Inspect the tire threads: Check the wear bars on the tires carefully. If they are level with the threads then it is time to replace the tires. Worn out threads can cause a blowout or a flat tire. If you notice the threads on your tires are uneven, it may be caused by underinflation. You may want to visit an auto service station to have it checked by a professional.
- Do a tire rotation when you change the oil: The National Highway Safety Administration recommends rotating the tires at intervals of 5,000 miles. This means you can rotate the tires during an oil change because oil changes should be done after 5,000 It will be easier to remember to do it this way.
- Store a can of compressed air in the car: Keep a can of compressed air in the trunk of your car in case you get a flat tire near a service station. If you can not get compressed air have a tire pump.
- Drive cautiously: If at all possible avoid driving your car in areas under construction or roods that are poorly maintained. Nails, sharp rocks, potholes, glass and metal shards can easily cause a flat tire. Avoid driving on the shoulder of the road or highways. These areas usually have built up debris from accidents like broken glasses. Choose the road you are traveling according to the tires you have.
- Ill-fitted or worn out brakes can also cause uneven tire wear: You should always check the car break or have a technician check them to avoid this.
You will experience a flat tire in your driving experience at some point. It is important to be prepared. You should always have some form of roadside assistance you can contact for help.
