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Your car tires are important for keeping you safe on the road. As such, you need to take precautions to avoid the conditions that can lead to flats and increase the risk of a blowout. Here are a few steps you can take to protect your tires.

How to Prevent Flat Tires

1. Maintain Proper Air Pressure

Ensuring your car tires are always properly inflated can extend their longevity. Underinflation causes more of the rubber to make contact with the road. The friction and heat over this larger surface area can speed up wear and cause a flat. 

Your car’s recommended air pressure levels are usually located in the vehicle manual or on the driver’s side door edge. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the levels. If they are low, have air added to keep the tires from going flat. 

2. Steer Clear of Road Hazards

Construction zones and deteriorating roads often contain materials that can cause flats. Nails and glass can puncture the rubber, while potholes can result in damage the causes the tire to leak.

Stick to well-paved roads whenever possible. If you're driving on rough or uneven terrain, slow down to limit the impact on your tires, and pay attention to the area in front of you to avoid hazards. 

Keep in mind that damage may not emerge right away. If you notice bulges or cracks in a tire, replace it with a spare or a new one to remain safe.  

3. Get Tires Rotated

car tires

Having your car tires rotated by a professional can extend their life span. They'll switch the front and back tires to prevent uneven wear patterns. 

Depending on your vehicle manual's recommendations, tires should typically be rotated every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. This important auto maintenance practice can minimize unexpected and dangerous blowouts. 

4. Replace Worn Tires

If a tire's tread is thin, peeling, or otherwise damaged, it’s time to get a new one. Tires need proper tread to provide safe traction on roads. Without it, a flat or blowout can occur. 

One way to measure the tread depth is with a penny. Insert the coin into one of the tire’s grooves. If you can see the entire top of Lincoln’s head, the tread may be too shallow and the tire likely needs replacing. 

 

If you want to keep your car tires in excellent condition, visit M & C Tire in Kalispell, MT. The family-owned shop provides top-brands and service to drivers in White Fish, Columbia Falls, Big Fork, Lakeside, and Somers. As a certified Tire Industry Association center, they have access to a network of more than 30,000 tire service centers to ensure your car tires are always in stock. Call (406) 752-9662 to schedule an appointment, or browse their selection of tires online

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