How to Choose the Right Tires and Take Care of Them

Choosing the right tires for your vehicle is important for safety, performance, and fuel economy. Here are some steps to follow when selecting tires:

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or tire placard for the recommended tire size, load capacity, and speed rating.

Determine the type of tires that are best for your driving needs. For example, consider winter tires if you live in an area with heavy snow or ice. On the other hand, if you frequently drive off-road, you may need all-terrain or mud-terrain tires.

Consider the tread pattern of the tires. Tread patterns are designed to provide specific benefits, such as improved traction on wet or dry roads, reduced road noise, or better handling in turns.

Compare tire brands and models, and read reviews to understand their performance, durability, and value.

Have your [atc] Auto Center Service Advisor show you the recommended tires for your vehicle. We’d be happy to walk you through the many varieties of tires we carry. Stop by our Augusta repair shop or our Grovetown repair shop.

Once you’ve chosen the right tires, taking care of them is essential!

Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road.

For your safety and the longevity of your tires, check out these five tips for taking care of them:

1. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb. Overinflated or underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, reduced fuel economy, and premature tire wear.
2. Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear. Your owner’s manual should specify how often to rotate your tires, but a general rule of thumb is to rotate them every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. This will help extend the life of your tires and improve your vehicle’s handling. Or better yet, let [atc] Auto Center handle that for you- we’ll let you know when it’s time for tire services!
3. Check your tires for damage, such as cracks, cuts, punctures, or bulges. Additionally, check your tires for foreign objects that may have become lodged in the tread. If you notice any damage, have your tires inspected by [atc] AutoCenter.
4. Have your tires balanced and aligned regularly. Unbalanced or misaligned tires can cause uneven wear, vibration, and poor handling. Avoid steering and suspension issues- have your tires balanced and aligned at least once a year.
5. If you will not be driving your vehicle for an extended period, properly store your tires to prevent flat spotting. Flat spotting occurs when a tire sits in the same spot for too long, causing the rubber to lose shape and become distorted.

By following these guidelines for choosing and maintaining your tires, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable ride and get the most value from the investment in your tires.