Tires today cost a lot of money. There are many ways you can make them last longer. The most important way is to check the pressures at least monthly using a quality pressure gauge. Improperly inflated tires are the leading cause of premature failure. Set the pressures according to the manufacturer’s recommendations found on the driver’s door frame. Vehicle manufacturers have been producing vehicles with a TPM system (tire pressure monitoring) which warns you well in advance of a low tire pressure. These TPM systems help you keep the pressures correct to maximize fuel economy and tire life. Yes they are expensive to replace but they are worth it if they save one tire.

Another way to make tires last is to have them balanced and rotated every 15,000 to 20,000 kilometers. All Wheel Drive vehicles need this done more often. Wheel alignments also minimize tire wear and improve handling. These need to be done every 2 years or 25,000 kilometers. Cleaning the tires and wheels regularly also minimizes deterioration. Even putting tire dressing on slows down the effects of ultraviolet light.