Keeping your tires in good shape isn't just about extending their lifespan; it's also crucial for your safety on the road. The team at Lamb’s Tire & Automotive knows this better than anyone. They’ve seen countless cases where neglected tires have led to accidents. Proper tire care can make a world of difference, so here are some essential tips to keep your tires in top condition.

Five Key Things to Remember About Your Tires

Many car issues stem from neglect, but you can avoid costly repairs by staying informed. Here’s what you need to know to keep your tires healthy.

1. Tires Don’t Last Forever

Tires are made of rubber, which naturally wears out over time. Since they're the only part of your car that touches the road, they take a beating. As the tread wears down, stopping distances increase, making driving more dangerous. Inspect your tires regularly for signs of normal wear, uneven wear, or foreign objects stuck in the tread. This is something you should do once a month—your responsibility as a vehicle owner.

2. Misaligned Wheels Can Ruin Your Tires

Your car’s wheels and tires are constantly exposed to wear and tear. Hitting curbs, potholes, or experiencing a collision can knock them out of alignment. So can worn-out suspension components. Look for bald spots when checking your tires. Even if the rest of the tread looks fine, bald spots often indicate misalignment. Other signs your car might need realignment include drifting to one side, the steering wheel being crooked after a turn, vibrations in the steering wheel, or tires squealing. If you notice any of these issues, bring your car to Lamb’s for a professional assessment.

3. Worn-Out Shocks Impact Your Tires

Worn-out shocks or struts can cause uneven wear on your tires, particularly along the edges. Always perform a visual inspection of your tires each month. If your car’s shocks or struts are damaged, flat spots can form on the tread. Leaving your car parked in one place for long periods can also lead to flat spots. To avoid this, make sure you drive your car occasionally.

4. Squealing Tires Are a Warning Sign

Squealing tires aren’t normal and could signal trouble. Underinflated tires increase the risk of accidents, while overinflated ones cause their own set of problems. Make sure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure. If you’re unsure how to do this, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Lamb’s Tire & Automotive is always ready to assist you with tire inflation and maintenance.

5. Vibrations Indicate Tire Problems

If your steering wheel starts vibrating unpredictably while driving, it could be a sign of tire imbalance. This issue shouldn’t be ignored, as it can lead to costly repairs. Visit Lamb’s as soon as possible for a thorough inspection and potential tire balancing.

The Importance of Tire Rotation and Balancing

While tire rotation and balancing are different procedures, both are essential for maintaining your tires. Let’s explore why these services matter.

Tire Rotation: A Must-Do Task

Your car’s tires wear differently depending on their location. Ignoring this fact can lead to premature wear, making your tires unsafe. Front and rear tires tend to wear unevenly, so regular rotation is vital. By rotating your tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles (depending on the manufacturer’s recommendation), you can ensure even wear and extend their lifespan. Consider adding tire rotation to your routine maintenance schedule alongside oil changes. While over-rotating won’t harm your tires, neglecting this step can lead to uneven wear.

Tire Balancing: A Crucial Step

Unlike rotation, balancing involves addressing imbalances in the tire and wheel assembly. These imbalances can cause vibrations, which may affect fuel efficiency and tire longevity. If left unaddressed, they could even lead to blowouts, putting you and your passengers at risk. Tire balancing is performed using specialized equipment to identify imbalances and apply small weights to the rim to correct them.

At Lamb’s Tire & Automotive, we offer comprehensive tire services, including maintenance, repairs, and replacements. Our team is equipped to handle all your tire-related needs, ensuring your car stays safe and reliable on the road.

Why Choose Lamb’s for Tire Care?

Tires are a significant investment, and proper maintenance ensures they last as long as possible. At Lamb’s, we offer a range of services to keep your tires in great condition:

• Checking tire tread depth
• Rotating tires to distribute wear evenly
• Inspecting the spare tire
• Checking tire pressure and balancing
• Aligning wheels and tires
• Assessing wheel bearings
• Monitoring the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Contact a Lamb’s tire expert today to learn more about our maintenance schedules and how we can help you maximize your tire warranty. Call us now to book an appointment for tire rotation and balancing!