A Tire Safety Checklist for Every Driver

A Tire Safety Checklist for Every Driver

The safety of the tires is one of the most important things every car owner and driver should take care of. Here’s a car tire safety checklist that is necessary for every driver to ensure a safe ride.

  • Check tire pressure
    Checking tire pressure is one of the top things to do on a car tire safety checklist. It is very important to maintain the right pressure as recommended by the manufacturer, so check the tire pressure whenever you visit a fuel station. Also, you can buy a tire pressure gauge, as it is inexpensive and can be used to check the pressure regularly.
  • Check for wear and tear
    With time, wear and tear on the tires is natural. However, if the wear and tear is irregular, it can be because of improper pressure or sudden braking, which can damage the tires and result in safety issues while driving. It is important to physically check the tires for irregular wear and tear.
  • Check the age
    Tires need to be replaced at least every 6 years. If maintained well, you can retain a tire for up to 10 years, but using a tire beyond this period can be risky. Check the tire manufacturing date and keep a note so that you can replace them as per the suggested schedule.
  • Check tread
    The tire tread indicates how worn out a tire is. If the tire looks bald, it is an indication that it needs replacement. You can perform a simple test. Insert a coin in the tire groove. When you insert the coin face down into the groove and can see the head on the coin, it means it is time to change the tire.
  • Check the sidewalls
    The sidewalls of the tire should be checked for any physical damage, which may occur when you hit potholes or if your tire hits the sidewalks. If you observe many cuts on the sidewalls, you should consider changing the tire to prevent problems.
  • Check tire usage
    Tires are meant to be used in the right conditions, and you cannot use the same tires in snowy and hot weather. Do check the type of tires you have and whether they are appropriate for the weather conditions in your area.
  • Check for tire rotation
    Tire rotation on the front and rear tires and diagonal rotation is a must after every 6,000 miles. Swapping the front and rear tires prevents excess wear and tear on one set of tires. You need to check whether this has been done, and if not, get it done at a car workshop.
  • Check whether the tire is new
    Another thing to cross off on the car tire safety checklist is to ensure that the tires you’re using are new, as old or used tires could pose a safety risk.

The car tire safety checklist presented in this checklist has simple and practical things that every driver needs to check. Following this checklist ensures you can have a safe ride.