Air Up. Make sure your tires are properly inflated according to the vehicle’s specifications (check the sticker on the inside door jamb or the owner’s manual). Check your air pressure once a month, as your tires can lose up to one pound per square inch (PSI) every 30 days. As we head into the heat of summer, keep in mind that air pressure can fluctuate based on the temperature. Also remember that underinflated tires roll less efficiently, decreasing your mileage per gallon and costing you more to fill up.

Line up. Have your wheel alignment checked annually by a certified technician and have your tires rotated every 5,000 miles or as suggested by your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Proper wheel alignment is important for correct vehicle handling, tire wear, braking stability and a smooth ride. Anything you can do to help your tires roll smoothly will result in improved fuel mileage that saves you money at the pump.

Take tread seriously. Your passenger tires should have at least 2/32 inch of tread depth; anything less is hazardous on the wet roads. Familiarize yourself with the "penny test" as a way to check your tire tread depth. 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. In addition, check each tire’s grooves to make sure they are free of foreign objects and check the sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.