Tires should have at a minimum of 2/32” of tread to prevent skidding and hydroplaning. To determine this, insert a penny in a tire groove. If you can see Lincoln’s head then you need new tires.
Along with providing traction, tires also have a significant impact on how a car handles, brakes and its stability when making turns. Maintaining proper tire pressure is vital for vehicle safety, along with reducing tire wear, improving handling and increasing MPG’s.
Check Tire Pressure
Pressure in all tires, including the spare, should be checked monthly and more often when winter temperatures set in. For a more in-depth look on tire maintenance, visit our interactive website display at Tires & Alignments.
Many newer model vehicles have Tire Pressure Monitoring sensors that detect when tires are under or over inflated. Special equipment and tools are required to repair and reset these sensors and valve stems.
Uneven Tire Wear
Improperly inflated tires lead to uneven tire wear. Inflate tires to their recommended pressure levels, rotate your tires every 6,000 miles, and check tire balance and wheel alignment on a regular basis.
Alignment Check
Vehicles that pull to one side or shake are most likely out of alignment. This will affect your car’s handling and lead to tires wearing out prematurely. It is recommended that you get your alignment checked once a year. Go to Alignment Check for more details.
Winter Tires vs. All Season Tires
Winter tires, also referred to as snow tires, are designed to provide better traction, handling and braking capability on snow, ice or slush covered roads. The tread design and tread compounds of winter tires are manufactured to perform specifically in cold, winter conditions.
If the long range winter forecast is for heavy snow then winter tires are a good investment. Just remember to take them off your vehicle when warm weather arrives or you head for Florida. Using winter tires in temperatures above 45 degrees will cause them to wear out prematurely.
Studded snow tires are permitted in Indiana from October 1 – May 1, but check with your local municipality to make sure they are legal in your area.
Road Work Update
With all the road work taking place on Sagamore Pkwy, we’ve come up with some suggested alternative routes to make it easier to visit us at Beck’s.