Do Your P.A.R.T. During National Tire Safety Week
Alignment
How do you know when it’s time to get an alignment? As a routine part of maintaining your tires, you should check the alignment every other oil change or as specified by your owner’s manual. Some clear signs that you need an immediate alignment are:
- Sharp or slight pulling in one direction
- Steering wheel vibration
- Crooked steering wheel
- Uneven tire tread wear
Rotate
Rotate your tires based on the recommendations in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, or if not specified, every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or when you change your oil. Changing the position of the tires on your vehicle helps spread the wear evenly to maximize tread life.
Know Before You Go
Preparation is the key to success, and it’s no different in driving. Familiarize yourself with your vehicle’s owner’s manual and driver’s information in the driver’s side door frame. Also know where your preferred mechanic and tire professionals are located and store their contact information in your cell phone. Do you know how to put a spare tire on your car or other basic repairs? Roadside assistance services like AAA are reasonably priced and can help you when things go wrong.
Lastly, always contact a tire professional when in doubt.