Tips to Prevent Flat Tires

You may be familiar with the scenario: You leave the house with high hopes for a road trip only to have your day deflated by a flat tire. Flat tires are inevitable, and unfortunately, they tend to strike at the most inopportune times—such as when you are traveling or on your way out the door for an important appointment. Flat tires are not only inconvenient but they can also be very dangerous, especially if you have one while driving at top speed.

(Pixabay / McDowning)

There are ways of minimizing your risks for flat tires, even if you can’t prevent them altogether. Consider the following tips:

• Keep your tires inflated – Inflating your tires according to the manufacturer’s recommendations will help your tires to wear evenly and extend their lifespan. In addition, tires that are properly inflated will be easier to control compared to over or under-inflated tires.
• Check your tires for uneven wear – Make it a habit to inspect the tread of your tires. You will wear your tires down quickly if you are in the habit of making quick starts, hard stops, or frequent stops and starts. Replace your tires quickly when they get too worn down. Otherwise you will be at a higher risk for a flat tire or blowout.
• Look for thick tread – When buying new tires, look for thick tread that will be more resistant to punctures (the number one cause of flat tires). Thick-tread tires could cost more, but they will likely last longer, saving you money over time.
• Check your car’s brakes – Your brakes could affect the life of your tires. Worn out and poorly adjusted brakes could cause tires to wear unevenly, increasing the risk of a flat.
• Avoid rough streets – Poorly maintained streets or lots may be littered with sharp objects that could puncture your tires. Watch out for glass, jagged pieces of wood, screws, nails, and rock shards. Potholes and uneven roads could also damage your tires.

Invest in a bit of prevention to help ward off the curse of the flat tire.