If you want to extend the lifespan of your tires as much as possible, you need more than just maintenance. Your vehicle’s tires are bound to wear out, but certain driving habits can mean you need to replace them sooner than you might think. Here are some driving practices you should avoid and improve on for the sake of your safety and the life of your tires.

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Disregarding the Signs

We’ve all seen the annoying dash light that flashes when your tires are low, yet only appears at the worst possible times. Therefore, many drivers decide to ignore the light rather than arrive late for work.

Tires that are either over-inflated or under-inflated result in incorrect contact with the road. They wear down and overheat more quickly than usual because of the exponentially increasing friction between the tire and the road. Check your tire pressure at least twice a month or each time you refuel. Follow the tire pressure recommendations for your tires. You can ask an auto repair professional for help if you’re unsure of what the recommended tire pressure is.

Careless Driving

Some activities can wear out your tires, including driving techniques involving abrupt brakes or sharp turns. The edges of your front tires can deteriorate if you turn too quickly. Brake gently and save it for emergencies.

Driving at High Speeds

Your tires heat up when you’re driving at fast speeds or above the maximum, causing more wear and tear. The transmission, suspension, engine, and brakes of your car will also sustain increased damage. If you feel the desire for speed, be aware that doing so will hasten tire wear.

Driving on Rough Surfaces

If you like to drive off-road, be aware that driving fast through rocky, muddy, and gravel roads will harm your tires and result in excessive wear. You can decrease these problems by traveling over these surfaces slowly and cautiously, avoiding road trash and obstacles to the best of your ability. Depending on where you live, these sorts of roads might not be avoidable.

Carrying Heavy Load

There is a maximum weight rating for each tire. You put more strain on both the inside and outside of your tires when you exceed the maximum weight. If you routinely carry loads that are heavier than what your tires are designed to handle, think about updating your tires so your automobile can safely handle the weight.

Dry Steering

Dry steering is the practice of turning the wheel while your car is still moving. It puts the tires under a lot of stress and grinds them against the pavement. Dry steering is often a simple error, but if you are more attentive when driving, you can avoid turning the steering wheel if your vehicle is not moving.

Dallying Maintenance

The rate of tire wear varies depending on where they are in the car. By routinely rotating your wheels, you can alter their position and promote more even wear. Tire rotations ensure each tire experiences a comparable level of stress, resulting in more even wear and longer tire life. You should also have the wheel alignment checked when you have your tires rotated. Correctly aligned wheels can prevent early wear. The alignment of your tires will help them live longer.

Caring for your car will minimize tire wear and stress. Although tire wear is completely normal, maintaining a regular maintenance plan and using safe driving practices will help to keep your tires functioning properly and safely.

7 Driving Habits That Kill Your Tires