Tire Sales and Care
Be Tire Smart: If properly cared for, tires for your Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini or Aston Martin can last a long time – usually from 40,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on the application. However remember that rubber naturally deteriorates; beyond 5 years your tires will become hard, failing to grip the road properly and provide a smooth ride. Underinflated tires waste fuel. Regular care helps tires get the most potential wear so they don’t need to be replaced as often. Proper care can help prevent tire failure. How to take care of your tires – remember: PART
- Pressure
- Alignment
- Rotation
- Tread
Pressure: Maintain the correct air pressure in your tires. Under-inflation can lead to tire failure. The right amount is shown on the vehicle door edge, doorpost, glove box door or fuel door, or is listed in the owner’s manual.
- Check air pressures when the tire is cool – meaning not hot from driving even a mile (Note: if you have to drive a distance to get air, check and record the tire pressure first and add the appropriate air pressure when you get to the pump. It is normal for tires to heat up and the air pressure inside to go up as you drive. Never ‘bleed’ tires when the tires are hot!
- Don’t forget to air up your spare. Some spare tires require higher inflation pressure.
- Visually inspect tires to make sure thare are no nails or other objects embedded that could poke a hole in there and cause an air leak.
- Check sidewalls to make sure there are no gouges, cuts, bulges or other irregularities.Note: tire air pressure goes up (in warm weather) and down (in cold weather) 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change.
Alignment: Misalignment of wheels in the front or rear can cause uneven and rapid treadwear. Have your alignment checked periodically as specified in your vehicle owner’s manual or whenever you have an indication of trouble such as ‘pulling’ or vibration.
Rotation: Sometimes irregular wear can be corrected by rotating your tires. Consult your owner’s manual or tire dealer for the appropriate rotation pattern for your vehicle. If your tires show uneven wear check for and correct any misalignment, imbalance or other mechanical problem involved before rotation. At a minimum, tires should be rotated every 6,000 – 8,000 miles.
Tread: Tires must be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch in order to prevent skidding and hydroplaning. An easy test: place a penny into a tread groove. If part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread you’re driving with the proper amount of tread. If you can see all of his head you should buy a new tire.
This information is part of a consumer education program of the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Proper tire care and safety is simple and easy. The Rubber manufacturers Association recommends getting into the habit of taking five minutes every month to check your tires, including the spare.