The experts at Bowers Automotive in Colorado Springs have some advice on how to make your tires last 10 years. Most drivers have the idea that their tires should be changed around every two years, allowing some room for adjustment according to the road conditions and the frequency of use. It turns out that this rule of thumb is not as definite as you might think. The lifetime of a tire is highly dependent on where it is stored and how it is maintained.
It is true that the rubber material of tires does degrade over time, even without being in contact with the road. The main reasons for this are damage from ozone, temperature fluctuations, and UV rays. When stored indoors and at a stable temperature, you can prevent a lot of wear and tear on your tires. According to product specialists at Tire Rack, ordinary tires should last for six years of service and up to ten years total lifetime since manufacture.
So why do so many tires need to be changed at a much more frequent rate? The answer lies in the regular maintenance of your tires and better storage. To make the most of your tires and save money, you can follow these simple steps. Have your tire pressure checked and adjusted often. A typical tire will naturally lose 1 psi of pressure per month, and with every 10° increase or decrease of ambient temperature, you can expect to see a gain or loss of 1 psi.
Tires that are under or overinflated will suffer from an increased rate of wear and tear. If you can keep your pressure at the perfect level, you will slow down the wear of your tires significantly. The tire pressure monitoring systems in most vehicles will only alert you when the pressure has dropped below 75% of the recommended value. This is not sensitive enough to prevent damage to your tires and lower your fuel economy substantially. Checking the pressure with a gauge at ambient temperature every month and making necessary adjustments will make a big difference in the lifetime of your tires.
Keeping track of wear on your tire treads can save you some hassle in the future. When getting your vehicle serviced, make sure you have your tires rotated and balanced. This will ensure your tire treads wear down evenly and can elongate their lifetime. Depending on your daily driving conditions, weather and terrain quality, your tires may need replacing more often than every six years. Use the quarter test if in doubt. When you stick a quarter into the tread of your tire, if the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s time for new tires!
It may not be possible for everyone to take advantage of these tips on how to make your tires last 10 years, but by taking these precautions, you will definitely extend their life and save money. Keeping your tires wearing evenly, balanced, and at the right pressure will keep them functioning safely for longer. Store your vehicle and any spare tires in an area away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations if possible. Bower’s Automotive will gladly help you with a simple tire rotation and balance as well as complete vehicle evaluation and maintenance. Don’t hesitate to call us with any questions about tire maintenance and replacement.