You know what gets you moving on the road?
Friction—between your tires and asphalt. That means no grip, no moving.
However, friction also generates heat.
Now imagine the heat produced just by driving, combined with scorching summer temperatures. Think about how hot and overloaded your tires can get. This is why paying extra attention to them and using the correct tire type for the season is vital (so, if you’re still running on winter tires, it’s time to switch!)
With hot tires in mind, here are a few simple steps to keep your tires in top shape during the summer months:
1. Check Your Tire Pressure
Hot temperatures can significantly impact tire pressure, leading to fluctuations that affect your driving safety and fuel efficiency. Having the correct tire pressure ensures optimal performance, preventing uneven wear and potential blowouts.
Check your tire pressure at least once a month and always before taking a long trip. You can use a tire pressure gauge to measure readings against the recommended pressure found in your vehicle’s manual or the driver’s side door jamb.
Remember, proper inflation is key to a smooth and safe summer driving experience.
2. Inspect Your Tire’s Tread Depth
Sufficient tread depth is vital for maintaining traction and ensuring safety, whether in the ice cold of winter or hot summer roads.
A simple penny test can help you quickly check your treads: insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to get new tires.
For more accurate measurements, use a tread depth gauge. The legal minimum tread depth in several states is usually 2/32 of an inch, but for optimal safety, consider replacing your tires at 4/32 of an inch.
3. Check Your Tires for Damage and Wear
Conduct a thorough visual inspection.
Construction tends to ramp up in summer, so there’s possibly more debris on the roads that could damage your tires. Look for cuts, punctures, cracks, or bulges on the tire surface and sidewalls. Check for embedded objects like nails or glass, which can lead to slow leaks or sudden blowouts.
Irregular wear patterns can indicate alignment or suspension problems that need addressing. Getting signs of damage fixed promptly will prevent small issues from turning into more significant (and costly) problems so your tires remain in top condition for safe summer driving.
4. Keep Your Tires Clean and Cool
All that driving in the summer heat and through sudden showers can pile on the dirt and mud on your tires. Wash your tires often to remove debris and brake dust that can cause deterioration over time. Regular washes will also prevent your tires from drying out or wearing too quickly. Use a gentle brush and mild soap to clean the tire surface and avoid harsh chemicals that might degrade the rubber.
Keeping your tires cool is equally important to prevent premature wear and blowouts. Park in the shade whenever possible. Try to avoid driving on hot asphalt for long durations, and consider checking your tire temperature during particularly hot days.
If you have to park outdoors in the sun for extended periods, consider using a professional-grade car cover, which will protect not only your tires but also your vehicle paintwork.
5. Rotate Your Tires
Your vehicle’s front and rear tires wear differently due to variations in steering, braking, and weight distribution. Rotating your tires every 5,000 – 7,500 miles, or as recommended in your vehicle’s manual, promotes even wear and extends your tires’ lifespan.
Common rotation patterns include front-to-back and cross-pattern rotations — this depends on whether your car is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. Regular tire rotation enhances performance and safety and helps you get the most mileage out of your investment.