Maintaining your car’s tires is more important than you may think. It’s not just about avoiding flats; it’s about making your ride smoother, saving fuel, and having better control of your vehicle. Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so keeping them in good shape is key. Are you not sure how to check your tires? No problem! At Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville, we’re here to walk you through everything you need to know.
Are you shopping for tires near Fayetteville, AR? Click here to order yours from our dealership.
Inspecting Tire Pressure
Check and adjust your tire pressure regularly to keep your car in good shape and safer to drive. This helps your car handle better, stop quicker, and use less gas. The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises doing this check every month. Whether you have a digital or analog device, it’s simple to do with any tire gauge. Here’s a straightforward way to make sure your tires are properly inflated.
Reading Your Car’s Tire Pressure
- Remove the cap on the tire’s valve stem.
- Place the gauge reader at the end of the stem.
- Use pressure for a tight seal for a clear reading.
- Add or discharge air as needed.
- Use an air compressor to supply air. You can visit a gas station if you do not have one.
- If your tires are overinflated, place the gauge’s non-rounded end on the valve stem to release pressure.
Tire Tread
You will want to monitor your tires’ tread depth to ensure a smooth drive. A simple trick to check if it’s time for new tires is the “penny test.” Usually, new tires start with a tread depth between 10/32-inch and 11/32-inch. When they’re worn down to 2/32-inch, it’s a good idea to replace them. The “penny test” quickly helps you determine when you’ve hit that mark.
Using the Penny Test
- Position a penny between the tire’s tread raises, or “rib.”
- When placing the penny, ensure Lincoln’s head is pointing down.
- Check to see if Lincoln’s head is visible.
- If Lincoln’s head hides behind the tread, your tire is above the 2/32 threshold.
- If you can see Lincoln’s entire head, it’s probably time to get new tires.
Click here to schedule a service appointment at Crain VW of Fayetteville!
Taking good care of your car’s tires is essential for a smooth and safe ride. Tires are the ONLY part of your vehicle that makes contact with the road, so it’s important to ensure they’re in tip top shape; whether you’re heading into town or on an extended vacation far from home.
As we’ve shown above, checking your tire’s air pressure and tire tread is simple and easy. Using the penny test and a gauge reader can go a long way to ensuring your drive is safe and efficient.
Is it time for new tires? Consider visiting Crain Volkswagen of Fayetteville for a check-up. Our dealership is located at 2011 West Foxglove Drive in Fayetteville, AR.
Heading back to school? Visit our blog to learn about some of our favorite college cars.
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