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Tires can frustratingly be pricey, but the value of a quality tire should not be ignored. As the only safety device on your car that is actually touching the road, your tires play a large role in helping avoid accidents. In addition to increasing traction, tires also affect stopping distances and fuel economy. Let’s look at some of the issues that will affect the health of your tires.

First, if your tires are old, they should not be trusted. Manufacturers add dates to the tire’s sidewall to indicate age. If your tires are 5-10 years old, Cadillac Service Greensburg suggests that you’ll want to consider getting newer tires to ensure the integrity of the tire has not been compromised. The date is also something to consider when buying new tires, as some tire companies have been known to pawn off tires that have been sitting a bit too long.

Under inflated tires are by no means a minor problem. With more tread touching the road, they tend to run at higher temperatures than an adequately inflated tire says Hartford CT Tire Center. This added fiction could increase wear and exacerbate damage to the rubber. Additionally, overinflated tires can also impair safety as on road traction will likely decline dramatically. Both scenarios will also negatively affect your vehicle’s fuel economy.

Tires are made of rubber, which not only deteriorates from age, but Auto Repair Richmond adds they also deteriorates from ultraviolet light and chemicals in the road. If you have a garage or carport, use it to ensure your tires are not exposed to unnecessary amounts of sunlight. There are also a number of affordable products available at any automotive parts store such as Mazda parts Salinas that can clean tires and protect them from harmful elements.

Car tires are not invincible, and they remain susceptible to harmful debris on the road. If you sustain a puncture or nail in the tire, get it plugged immediately! A plug can prevent the tire from a potential blowout warns Nissan Parts Chattanooga, which would render the tire completely useless. A plug is a cheap fix to a potentially costly problem. As with all of these issues, remain proactive to ensure years of trouble-free wear.

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Read new DIY auto repair tips here.

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It’s times like these when everyone is looking for ways to save money. This is especially true when it comes to our cars. While many consumers are holding on to their cars to save a buck or two, rather than buying a new car, there are other ways to save some fuel, time, and cash as well.

First, don’t spend time warming up your car in the morning. This may be helpful in winter months, but since we’re currently in Spring and heading into Summer, warming up is not necessary. By forgoing this routine, you will be able to save time and fuel.

Pay more attention to your driving behavior. Don’t accelerate too fast, pass cars, or speed. In addition, don’t slam on your brakes when you need to stop. Instead, take your foot off the gas early and slow down. By maintaining slow speeds and moderate acceleration, you are helping to conserve fuel.

Your air conditioning system is a common source of wasted fuel. Luckily, there are alternatives! Instead of clicking the A/C on, try using just the air vent to stay cool. Los Angeles Honda Service recommend opening the window or sunroof to get fresh air in.

You tires play a big role in fuel consumption, believe it or not. If your tires or under inflated or over inflated you may be impairing aerodynamics and increasing friction when your tires hit the ground – both of which will increase fuel consumption. To find the proper tire pressure of your vehicle, Richmond Tire Center suggests consulting your owner’s manual or along the front driver side door.

In addition to changing your driving behavior, change where you drive to. Instead of making several errands throughout the day, combine errands and short trips whenever possible. Take short cuts and get to all your destinations in a single block of time.

Consider alternate means of transportation. New Jersey Mercury dealers know that it’s difficult to pull yourself away from your vehicle, but to conserve fuel costs you may want to consider car pooling or even riding a bike to get to a nearby destination.

Don’t store unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Added weight means your car has to work harder to move it. In fact, Richmond Collision Center says that for every 500 pounds your car is burning an additional two to five miles per gallon. Remove any unnecessary items in your truck and stay as light as possible.

A dirty air filter can hinder performance and increase fuel consumption. Spark plugs are also important in maximizing efficiency. Don’t put off replacing these relatively inexpensive engine components.

Lastly, if you want to get rid of that gas-guzzling SUV or pickup truck, consider a used hybrid. Pre-owned hybrids at Used Cars Boston have lower price tags than new hybrids, but can still provide more that 40 miles per gallon in many instances. Plus, with government rebates available, a used hybrid is an outstanding value overall.

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Tips to save money on auto repair are here at Auto Repair in the Know.