This National Tire Safety Week, Don’t Forget To Check Your TiresJune 7th – 13th is National Tire Safety Week

BLOOMINGDALE, Ill. (May 28, 2009) — Tires are one of the most important components of a vehicle. They’re also one of the most overlooked. According to a study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than one in four passenger vehicles and light trucks are driving with at least one significantly under-inflated tire. Firestone Complete Auto Care™ recommends the following maintenance tips to keep your tires in tip-top shape this National Tire Safety Week (and every week!)

Check your pressure. Tires can lose one pound of air pressure per square inch (psi) every month and one psi for every 10˚F temperature drop, so it’s important to check your tires monthly, including your spare, with an accurate tire gauge. To find out if your tires are properly inflated, locate the recommended tire inflation pressure listed on the sticker on your vehicle’s driver’s side door jamb, fuel filler lid, or in your glove box, trunk or owner’s manual. Make sure to check your tire pressure when the vehicle has been driven less than one mile or has been sitting for at least three hours. To check your tire pressure:

1.) Remove the tire valve cap.
2.) Place the end of the pressure gauge over the valve.
3.) Press the gauge down straight and firmly until the scale extends.
4.) If needed, add air and recheck the tire pressure with the air gauge.
5.) Replace the valve cap.

Get in line. Have your wheel alignment checked annually by a certified technician and have your tires rotated every 5,000 miles or according to your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Proper wheel alignment is important for correct vehicle handling, tire wear, braking stability and a smooth ride. 

Check your tread depth at least once per month. Your tires should have at least 2/32 inch of tread depth. To easily determine if your tires are due for replacement, insert a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn and the tire probably needs to be replaced. If that’s the case, your next stop should be with a trusted service center.

Taking five minutes to check your tires this National Tire Safety Week and throughout the year can not only increase the life of your tires, but can help you and your family stay safer on the road.