Watch Out for These Tire Risks This Winter

Take care of your car tires this winter.

Because winter road conditions are the most extreme that drivers will face all year, it’s important that you are prepared.  One of the best ways to stay safe while driving this winter is by keeping your tires in good condition.  Here are some of the things to look out for to take care of your car tires this winter.

• Underinflation

Under normal conditions, tires can lose one psi (pounds per square inch) of pressure per month.  However, as temperatures drop, the air inside your tires condenses, making your tire pressure drop far more drastically.  When your tires are underinflated, they get too much traction on the road.  This, in turn, will cause them to deteriorate faster.  Not only will this end up costing you in the form of tire replacements, but it could also leave you to drive with worn tread, increasing your chances of skidding.

• Over-inflation

Many drivers overcompensate for underinflated tires and end up filling them up too much.  Unfortunately, when your tires are over-inflated, they get less traction on the road.  This can leave you susceptible to skidding.  To avoid this risk, make sure that you stay within the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure range when adding air to your tires.

• Worn Down Tread

During winter, drivers need to check their tire tread much more frequently—about once a month.  To be considered safe, your tread should be at least 2/32 inch deep.  A good way to test the depth of your tread is by inserting a penny into the tread groove.  If your tread id deep enough to cover Lincoln’s head, then you should be okay.  However, if the tread is so worn down that it leaves Lincoln’s head exposed, then you need to replace your tires as soon as possible.

These are some of the things that you need to watch out for to take care of your car tires this winter.  Want another way to take care of your car?  Then make sure you have the right auto insurance in place.  For assistance with all your car coverage needs, contact the experts at Promised Land Insurance Group.