Check your air pressure

Proper tire inflation is the single most important part of tire care so it's important to monitor the air pressure in your tires. The tires on your car were engineered to provide you with specific handling characteristics that can only be realized if you have the correct amount of pressure in them. A tire that is improperly inflated is prone to irregular wear, poor handling, traction loss and reduced tread life.

The inflation pressure inscribed on the side of the tire is the maximum operating pressure. This is not necessarily the correct inflation for your vehicle. Always refer to the inflation recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. This can usually be found in your owner's manual, posted on the edge of the driver's door, or inside the glove box door.

Tire pressure should always be checked when the tires are cold. You must also take into account the temperature outdoors when you operate your vehicle, as this has a direct affect on tire pressure. A change in temperature means a change in tire pressure.

You should use a good quality tire gauge and check the tire pressure every few weeks, prior to any long trip, when transporting a heavy load, and when towing a trailer or other vehicle. Your spare tire should also be included as part of this routine.

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