Concerned About Auto Safety? Know the 5 Point Tire Safety Check
Posted by Brian England on Tue, Nov 16, 2010
Do you make sure that even on the smallest car services you get, all safety items are checked? Did you know that one of the most important things to check are your tires?
It was important in the past, and it's even more important today. The wheel and tire assembly is a complex part of your vehicle. Most vehicles now have what used to be considered sports car tires and wheels; they come with expensive low profile tires on expensive aluminum wheels. This is coupled with a complex tire pressure monitoring system. When you add the cost of the tire, wheel and tire pressure-monitoring sensor, each replacement wheel will cost about a $1000 each. So, make sure your wheels and tires are in good condition to prevent failure.
During a service each tire should be checked carefully for:
1. Items in the tread that could cause a flat.
2. Bulges in the wall of the tires that could indicate the tire has been hit and damaged.
3. Unusual tire wear, that could point towards a damaged suspension.
4. Proper tire pressure.
5. That the protective cap is secure and sealing. (Leaving one of these caps off for six months can cause moisture to enter the valve and lead to failure of the tire pressure monitor sensor. Replacing a tire pressure monitor sensor can cost as much as a tire to replace).
Tires are a critical component of automobile safety. Make sure yours are checked frequently and are up to par.
photo courtesy of Clearly Ambiguous