Teen Driver? 3 Tire Maintenance Tips To Keep Them Safe This Summer

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For a teenage driver, summer freedom takes on a whole new meaning when they can travel farther in their car than their feet could ever go. Yet, as a parent, you know that driving in the summer means more than just a great chance for your kid to spend time with their friends. Between the summertime heat and extra driving, your teen's tires can take a beating. Here are the top things to show your teen about how a little maintenance can keep their car rolling all summer long.

Check the Pressure

It is important to check tire pressure at least once a month, and your teen should always double check it before a long trip. Make sure to explain to your teen that the correct level of air pressure listed for their vehicle should be based upon a cold reading. This means that the air pressure should only be checked and adjusted when the vehicle has not been driven for at least three hours. Since under inflation generates additional heat, letting air out of warm tires could lead to a blowout.

Avoid Overloading the Vehicle

Piling in a ton of friends or attempting to stuff the roof rack with sports equipment can do more harm than just decrease visibility and attention to the road. Have your teen check the manufacturer's manual to find the recommended amount of weight for their vehicle. Attempting to go over this weight level can also lead to heat buildup within the tires that can result in a serious accident.

 Perform a Visual Inspection Before Driving

Many tire problems can be spotted during a quick visual inspection that should be done before teens get in the driver's seat. Teach them to do a walk around the car to check for debris that may be stuck in the tread or signs of wear such as bulges, cuts or gouges. If any problems are discovered, they should avoid driving and have their car professionally inspected. This is especially important if your teen plans to drive in areas where sharp glass or nails are likely such as a crowded parking lot or beach area.

Vehicle maintenance may not be on the top of your teen's priority list this summer, but you can do your part to show them how to stay safe. Since a vehicle's tires are the main point of contact with the road, taking care of them will keep your teen and everyone else on the road safe.

For tire care, contact a company such as Collier Tire Auto & Truck Repair Center

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5 May 2016

Keep Your Vehicle Safe

Hello. My name’s Samuel Jacobs. I retired from my job as an auto mechanic last year. During my years as a mechanic, I had the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life. Some have remained friends to this day. When I was working, there is one thing that I came across at least weekly. That is how uneducated people are when it comes to their vehicle’s tires. Properly cared for tires are crucial to the safety of your vehicle. Without them, your car isn’t going anywhere. If they give out on you while you are driving, there is the potential for serious injury. I’m going to share some tire safety information here. Things like the importance of correct inflation, how to check the tread, when to replace tires, tire rotation, and what to do in case of a blow-out. I hope you find this information to be helpful.