Tire Care Tips

At Lockhart Tire, we make it easy to make the most of your tires. 

If you live in Pittsburgh, PA, Monroeville, PA, or Allison Park, PA, our Pittsburgh tire shop is the best place to go for the biggest deals on name brand tires. Whether you need tires for your car, truck, SUV, fleet vehicles, or trailer, you can trust that our team offers exceptional service at a great price. After all, our tire shop is TIA-certified and recognized by the BBB. 

If you want to top of tire performance and ensure that your tires last, be sure to  adhere to maintenance schedules outlined in your owner’s manual. Have specific questions about tire care? Feel free to ask our friendly staff anytime! When you buy your tires from Lockhart Tire, you can trust that we'll not only deliver competitive prices, but we'll also back up your tire purchase with the right service - and advice - to extend their life.

Your tires contribute to vehicle performance, so it's important to make sure that you take care of them with regular maintenance. Checking tire pressure, rotating your tires, balancing your tires, and choosing the right set of replacement tires based on safety and handling will all help in keeping your vehicle safe and efficient. 

Use the following tips to help you stay on top of tire maintenance:

• Check tire pressure to ensure proper inflation. Underinflation can lead to excess heat, uneven tire wear, and decreased braking and handling capabilities, which may cause structural failures like blowouts and tread separation. Properly inflated tires will maximize treadlife, improve handling, and increase fuel efficiency and overall driver safety.
• Use a penny to check for abnormal tire wear. Put Abraham Lincoln's head into the tread grooves. If part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread, you're tread depth is okay. If you can see all of his head, a tire replacement service is necessary. As a general rule, when the tread is worn down to 1/16 of an inch, the tires should be replaced.
• Follow proper tire rotation schedules. Recommended rotation patterns for your vehicle can be found in your owner’s manual. Routine tire rotations equalize and enhance front-to-rear and side-to-side tire wear. Remember: tire rotation will not prevent or circumvent wear issues caused by worn mechanical components.
• Balance tires as necessary. Out-of-balance tires may be detected in bumps that become more noticeable at higher speeds. Balancing tires is necessary during initial installation and during a remount.
• Install new tires in sets or pairs. The addition of one new tire to the rotation cycle can cause instability and create vehicle handling issues. When new tires are needed, two new tires should be installed on the rear of a vehicle, and the partially worn tires should be moved to the front of the vehicle.
• When the time comes to store your tires for next season, consider a dark place away from direct sunlight with low humidity. Tires should be stored away from solvents, grease, oil, or any ozone-producing electrical equipment, which have deteriorating effects on tires.
• Be mindful of abnormal tire wear or damage to your tires. Watch for signs of punctures, embedded objects, cracks, and bulges.
• Always keep a spare tire, and make sure it’s properly inflated and ready for use. You never know when you’re going to need it.

Take these tips into consideration when servicing your tires. The Rubber Manufacturer's Association (RMA) recommends taking five minutes each month to check your tires. Other mechanical issues may contribute to uneven tire wear, and need correction in order to maximize tire life and vehicle performance.

By taking proper care of your tires, you can remain safe during all types of travel, experience the benefits of better fuel economy, and extend tire life, which will positively impact the environment.

Visit us today or contact us online for tire services and any other service inquiry.

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