Tire Care Basics

Tire Pressure

Proper inflation pressure is essential for achieving maximum performance and mileage. Improper tire inflation pressure can cause severe internal tire damage, which can lead to sudden tire failure. 

Improper inflation pressure may result in rapid or irregular wear. Pressures should always be checked when the tires are cold and at least monthly. Under normal tire operation, approximately 1psi (pounds per square inch) of tire pressure will escape every month. Also, for every 10 degrees F change in ambient temperature, tire pressure will change by approximately 1psi.  

Vehicle manufacturers list recommended tire pressures for original vehicle tires in the owner's manual or on a placard on the end of the driver's side door or in the glove box.  

For continuous high speed driving, tire pressures should be increased by 3 to 5psi above the normal cold inflation recommended. However, for passenger tires, never exceed the maximum inflation pressure molded on the sidewall. The inflation pressure for light truck tires (tire sizes with an LT designation) may exceed that molded on the tire by 10psi. Any recommended front to rear pressure differential should be maintained.

Recommended Inflation Pressure

Many people ask "what air pressures do you (meaning tire companies) recommend for cars under normal conditions?" The answer is "we recommend what the vehicle manufacturer recommends." Many people mistakenly believe the only reason vehicle manufacturers recommend certain air pressures is for ride comfort.

You should check tire pressure at least once a month. Normal air loss is 1psi per month. In addition, each 10 degree change in ambient temperature causes a 1psi change internally in the tire.  Hogan Tire can help.  Stop by one of our locations at any time and we'll adjust your tires air pressure to the proper setting.

Tire Rotation

Tire rotation is vital to achieving even tread wear and long tread life. Rotation is necessary because of the uneven wear characteristics of each wheel position on the vehicle. Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.  Rotate your tires earlier if irregular or uneven wear develops.  Remember that a hard impact such as hitting a pothole can cause misalignment, which then causes uneven tire wear.  Hogan Tire can help you identify the cause of the wear problem.

There are a number of rotation patterns that may be used. The most common are shown here. The optional rotation patterns may be used depending on the treadwear pattern of the tires. The treadwear pattern may also indicate that other adjustments or mechanical service is necessary in addition to rotation.

Some tires are directional and can only be mounted on one side of the vehicle. In this case, only the front to rear, rear to front optional rotation pattern may be used unless the tire is remounted to maintain the proper tread direction when cross rotated to the opposite side of the vehicle. 

More on tire rotation...
 

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is the final step to completing tire and chassis service. Proper alignment is important to obtain maximum tread life, steering component life and to improve vehicle stability, control, handling and braking. A wheel alignment should be performed every 6-9 months depending on your driving habits.  For more on wheel alignment see - What everyone should know about wheel alignment.