"Where the Rubber Meets the Road!"
This saying is a common idiom in the English language. It is used as an analogy for a defining moment in your life or when faced with an important decision or action you must take. When you think about this popular phrase it in car terms, its meaning is just as significant. Translated literally, it refers to when the tires make physical contact with the road surface. We all know that surface contact with the rubber and the road is VERY important.
TIRES: They are the only things, on your car, that are in contact with the road.
WHAT IS THE CONDITION OF YOUR TIRES?
I don't drive many miles: It is known fact that rubber breaks down, over time. Even if you are not putting very many miles on your car your tires may succumb to "Dry Rot" which cracks the surface and sides of the tire. In many cases you might not even see the signs of accelerated degeneration of your tires. This can cause blowouts or tire tread separations.
TREAD DEPTH:
Friction: As you drive, the contact with the road and the rubber creates friction which gradually wears down the tire. Many experts say that as long as your tire is at or above the tread wear bars (Usually 2/32 of an inch) that as long as the tire has no visible cuts, bulges, uneven wear or excessive cracking then you are "generally safe." For the best traction and safety, we suggest to keep at least 5/32 of an inch of tread on your tires and replace them if they wear unevenly.
The Stick Test: Check your tread depth on a regular basis. Some extremists say to check your tires every time you get gas. You may think that is a little to much, at least check your tires every time you get your oil changed or every season change. (Every 3 months) You can buy a simple tire tread depth tool and "stick" your tires.
If nothing else use the quarter or penny test. Place a quarter into several tread grooves across the tire. If part of Washington's head is always covered by the tread, you have more than 4/32" of tread depth remaining. Place a penny, so the Lincoln memorial is facing you and is upside down, into several tread grooves across the tire. If the top of the Lincoln Memorial is always covered by the tread, you have more than 6/32" of tread depth remaining.
ROTATE THEM:
Where the power is: If you have a Front Wheel Drive (FWD) vehicle it is important to rotate your tires so that you have the tires with the most tread on the front. If you have a Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) vehicle, have the most tread on the back. All Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicles it is important to make sure your tires wear evenly. Many AWD vehicles act as front wheel drive until slippage and then the rear kick in and True 4x4 vehicles run as RWD until the 4x4 is engaged. You may get uneven wear on AWD or 4x4 tires. Many people don't know that when you replace AWD or 4x4 tires it is essential to replace all four at the same time. If you don't, you may end up damaging your AWD or 4X4 systems, just because the circumference is different and the tires rotate at different rates. On a FWD or RWD vechicle replace the two in the front or the back at the same time.
WINTER TIRES:
My tires are studs: Many questions come up whether studded snow tires are necessary in winter driving. It depends on where you live and how much snow you get. In Colorado, for normal driving, all season radials are all right. If you commute or drive in the mountains then you might want to consider getting a set of studded tires. The Bridgestone Blizak, has been a popular tire for winter time. We get more positive feedback from our customers on that brand, in the winter time.
MARKLEY MOTORS SELLS TIRES:
We sell tires at both of our service locations. Visit our service locations for:
- Tire Inspections at every oil change.
- Free quotes on brand name tires.
- Most competitive pricing.
- Ease and convenience of servicing.
- All MAKES and MODELS, cars, trucks, vans, SUV's.
Schedule a service visit:
Markley Motors:
http://www.markleymotors.com/ServiceApptForm
Markley Pre-Owned (Formerly Saturn of Fort Collins):
http://www.saturnftcollins.com/WebSiteSurvey_2
Written and posted by Tim Northburg - Sales / Internet Manager
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