High-quality tires will last for quite a long time if you take care of them. Unfortunately, many common driving habits wear out tires prematurely. Learn more about what those bad habits are so you can avoid frequent tire repairs and replacement. By doing so, you can expect your investment to last much longer.

Driving Styles That Lead to Tire Repairs 

1. Under-Inflation

There is a recommended PSI (pound per square inch) for tire pressure listed on the sidewall of each tire by their manufacturer. Forgetting to maintain tire pressure within this range will put too much weight on the rubber, forcing it to wear down faster than it should. Check your tire pressure at least once per month, before any long drives, and whenever outdoor temperatures change dramatically — the air in your tires expands and contracts as it gets hotter and colder.

2. Reckless Driving

Any type of reckless driving will wear out your tires — this includes stopping quickly, accelerating too fast, or taking turns too hard. These forms of reckless driving create skid marks, which occur when rubber from your tires is rubbed away and left in streaks on the pavement. Avoid those quick movements to reduce the amount of friction you apply to your tires. In addition to preserving your tires, you will drive more safely overall.

3. Skipping Alignments & Rotations

Wheel alignment moves all four wheels back into parallel positions, so the weight is evenly distributed among them. Rotations move the tires around to different spots on the vehicle to maintain even tread wear. This prevents “pattern wear,” in which one section of the tire wears prematurely while other areas are left unworn. Have your tires rotated every six months or 7,000 miles — whichever comes first. Have your wheels aligned every two to three years, after collisions, or when you get new tires. This will help you avoid tire repair and premature replacements down the road.

When you need a new set of tires or to have tire repairs done, choose a reputable tire shop for the job. The team at Auto World Tire & Auto are ASA- and ASE-certified technicians with more than 34 years of auto repair experience in St. Louis County, MO. They prioritize customer satisfaction, offering towing and shuttle services for your convenience. Visit the auto repair shop online to learn more about their services, and call (314) 895-4455 to schedule an appointment.