TIRE TLC: TIPS FOR TENDER LOVING TIRE CARE

From gravel and dirt to tar and asphalt, your tires reliably carry you over many kinds of roadways. Isn’t it time you return the favor with some special tire care?

TIRES HAVE AN IMPACT ON YOUR RIDE, TRACTION AND - MOST IMPORTANT - YOUR SAFETY

They are your vehicle’s connection to the road. To perform this critical function, your tires should receive regular attention. Here are three easy Do-It-Yourself (DIY) tire maintenance tips:

1. Start by checking tire pressure.

   1. Be sure all your tires are inflated to the proper level. How do you know the proper level? This information is usually found in the vehicle owner’s manual or on the tire placard (or sticker) in the doorjamb or glove box. Can’t find it? No problem! A Jiffy Lube® technician can access this information for you.

   2. Make checking the tire pressure a habit and do it every time you stop for a fuel refill. Every time? Is it really that important? Yes! Under-inflated tires generate extra friction as they roll along the pavement. This heat can degrade the tires faster and maybe even contribute to a dangerous blowout. A little extra tire care may save you money, too. Properly inflated tires have better traction, and that can mean greater fuel efficiency.

   3. Don’t forget the spare! It can be easy to fall into that “out of sight, out of mind” trap and neglect the spare as you go through your tire care regimen. But don’t. You want the spare to be in performance condition if you need it.

2. Look for cuts or bulges along the sidewalls. Concentrate on the portion of the tire between the tread and rims. Finding dirt or grime is no cause for concern. After all, these tires have been rolling along dusty roads, though the mud, and scraping against curbs. But damage that can’t be wiped away could mean that you’re risking a flat.

3. Check tire treads. All you need is a penny. Insert the penny into the tread groove with Mr. Lincoln’s face showing, but his head upside down. If you can see Abe’s head, your treads are shallow and worn, and it’s probably time for a tire replacement. Modern tires also include “wear bar” indicators that create a cross pattern when the depth is down to 2/32-inch. When you see the tread even with that indicator, it’s time for new tires.

EACH TIRE SHOULD WEAR EVENLY. BUT WHAT IF IT DOESN'T?

If, after following the tire maintenance tips outlined above, you find greater inner or outer wear, this could indicate improperly inflated tires or a worn (or misaligned) steering/suspension system. When you spot uneven tire wear, you should bring your vehicle to Jiffy Lube® … before traction, handling and your safety are adversely impacted.

UH-OH. YOUR TPMS (TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM) LIGHT IS ON

Swing by your local Jiffy Lube® and let a trained technician take a look. Your TPMS could be malfunctioning (hey, it happens). If so, a Jiffy Lube® technician can inspect and reset it for you. But the problem could also be a busted tire valve that needs replacement or a puncture that can be repaired. After examining your tires, the technician will explain the problem and how to fix it. No tire service will be performed without your knowledge and approval.

ROTATE YOUR TIRES EVERY 5,000 TO 7,000 MILES

That’s the tire industry’s standard recommendation. Visiting Jiffy Lube® for a professional tire rotation not only helps keep you rolling smooth and safe, it could be economical in the long run. Regularly rotating your tires helps them last longer.

REMEMBER, WHEN YOUR TIRES NEED ROTATING, REPAIR, OR REPLACEMENT, JIFFY LUBE® IS HERE FOR YOU

Bring your vehicle to one of the more than 2,000 Jiffy Lube locations across the U.S. and Canada for comprehensive tire care.

• Tire treads will be checked for both depth and condition

• Sidewalls will be thoroughly inspected

• Tire pressure will be checked and adjusted to the pressure recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer

You can also expect to have a conversation around your driving style. If your tires are wearing more quickly than expected, it could have something to do with the speed, distance, or terrain you have been traveling. The Jiffy Lube® technician will be ready to answer your questions and offer tire maintenance tips to help keep you rolling along safely.

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