There are four basic parts to tire maintenance: pressure, alignment, rotation and tread pressure.

1. Before checking the air pressure, make sure your tires are cool, not hot from driving. Never "bleed" or reduce the air pressure in your tires while the tire is hot.
2. After you remove the cap from the valve on the tire you are checking, press the tire gauge on the valve.
3. Add air to reach the recommended air pressure. This can be found in the owner's manual. If you overfill the tire, release the air by pushing on the metal stem in the center of the valve with a pen tip or fingernail.
4. Then replace the valve cap and repeat this process with the rest of the tires, which includes the spare.
5. Visually inspect the tires and sidewalls to make sure foreign objects are not embedded in them or may hurt your tires.

QUICK TIPS:

• Some spare tires require higher air pressure than the rest of your tires
• Air pressure goes up in a tire in warm weather
• Air pressure goes down in a tire in cold weather
• Air pressure increases or decreases 1-2 lbs. for every 10 degrees in temperature change

Alignment: Have your alignment checked periodically. It should say in your owner's manual when to have it checked. Also have your tire balance checked periodically because unbalanced tire and wheel assembly could result in irregular wear.

Rotation: Tires should be rotated approximately ever 6,000 miles. If your tires show an uneven wear, ask us to check for and correct any misalignment, imbalance or other mechanical problem that may have occurred.

Tread: When the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch, your tires must be replaced if you wish to prevent skidding and hydroplaning. A good check is to place a penny into a tread piece. If you can see his whole head, your tires need replacing. Built-in "Wear Bars" or treadwear indicators, strips of rubber that are across the tread will appear when the tire needs to be replaced. Always visually check your tires for any uneven tread wear and if you find any consult us as soon as possible.