The Often-Overlooked Importance of Tire Maintenance
While modern safety features like airbags and anti-lock brakes have revolutionized vehicle safety, one of the most critical—and often neglected—
components is your tires. As the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, tires play a crucial role in traction, braking, and stability. Poor tire maintenance can lead to serious accidents, making regular checks essential.
The Real Cost of Tire Neglect
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire failures contribute to approximately 11,000 crashes annually in the United States, resulting in about 200 fatalities and 6,000-10,000 injuries each year. These sobering statistics highlight why proper tire maintenance isn’t just about vehicle performance—it’s a matter of life safety.
Tire Pressure: A Key Factor in Safety
Keeping tires properly inflated, as specified in your vehicle’s manual or doorjamb sticker, is vital for:
- Optimal Traction – Ensures maximum road grip for safe acceleration, braking, and cornering.
- Even Wear – Prevents premature tire replacement due to uneven wear patterns.
- Reduced Blowout Risk – Underinflated tires flex more, generating excessive heat which can lead to dangerous blowouts, particularly at high speeds.
- Better Fuel Efficiency – Proper inflation lowers rolling resistance, improving gas mileage.
Tread Depth: Essential for Road Grip
Tires rely on tread depth to channel water away and maintain grip, especially in wet conditions.
- Check with the Penny Test – Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you see the top of his head, your tread is below the legal limit (2/32 of an inch) and it’s time for new tires.
- Prevent Hydroplaning – Worn tires struggle to maintain traction on wet roads, increasing skid risks.
- Inspect for Damage – Regularly check for cracks, bulges, or embedded debris that could weaken the tire.
Additional Tire Maintenance Tips
- Rotate Regularly – Promotes even wear and extends tire life.
- Check Alignment – Prevents uneven tread wear and ensures smooth handling.
- Consider Tire Age – Be aware of the age of your tires. Even if the tread looks good, tires older than six to ten years may be at a higher risk of failure due to material degradation.
- Consider Seasonal Tires – Winter tires with special tread patterns and rubber compounds enhance safety in snow and ice conditions.
- Visit NHTSA Website – https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/tires
While high-tech safety features grab attention, well-maintained tires remain a driver’s first line of defense. Regular tire care helps ensure safer travels—for you, your passengers, and everyone on the road.
