Tires play a crucial role in a vehicle's safety and reliability on the road, so drivers need to know how to take care of them. Everyday driving habits and obstacles can cause significant damage and disrupt your routine. Below are a few of the most common hazards and helpful tips for avoiding them.

How Do Tires Usually Become Damaged?

1. Driving Through Potholes

Potholes are among the most prevalent hazards—and among the most severe because their sharp edges can easily slice through tires. It's not always possible to avoid potholes, but being vigilant about road conditions and maintaining the speed limit can help prepare to navigate around them. If you know a certain road is riddled with potholes, cracks, or other defects, it's worth taking an alternate route when possible. 

2. Lack of Maintenance

Tire rotation ensures an even wear pattern over the treads, enhances performance, and improves gas mileage, ultimately prolonging your tires' life spans. Without this essential form of maintenance, some sections would wear down at an accelerated rate while others would remain completely intact. In general, you should schedule rotation service every 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. 

3. Touching the Curb

Tire sidewalls are not as robust as the treads, which are designed to make constant contact with the ground. Brushing against curbs and other obstacles can cause an impact break in the sidewall, which may eventually result in a blowout. This damage often occurs gradually by making contact with the curb every time you park. 

Whether you need new tires or are looking for repair service, Embassy Tire & Wheel of Tucson, AZ, is happy to lend a hand. They carry tires from brands you trust, including Michelin®️ and Uniroyal®, and provide reliable tire rotation and wheel balancing for safe handling. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (520) 771-6104 to schedule an appointment.