Heat Wave Checklist: 8 Things to Inspect Before Your Car Overheats

No Comment Car Care Tips, Maintenance, Safety Tips

Summer heat waves can be brutal on both you and your vehicle. While you’re cranking up the air conditioning and staying hydrated, your car is working overtime to keep its engine cool. When temperatures soar, the risk of engine overheating increases dramatically, potentially leaving you stranded on the side of the road with costly repairs ahead.

The good news? Most overheating issues are preventable with proper preparation and regular maintenance. By taking proactive steps before the mercury rises, you can ensure your vehicle stays cool and reliable throughout the hottest months of the year. 

Why are heat waves hard on your car?

Your car’s engine generates tremendous heat during normal operation, and the cooling system works constantly to maintain optimal operating temperatures. When ambient temperatures climb into the 90s and beyond, your cooling system faces additional stress. Add factors like stop-and-go traffic, air conditioning usage, and aging components, and you have a recipe for potential overheating disasters.

Your Pre-Heat Wave Inspection Checklist

1. Check Your Coolant Level and Condition: Start with the most obvious component – your coolant. With the engine completely cool, remove the radiator cap and check the fluid level. The coolant should reach the “full” line on the reservoir tank. More importantly, examine the coolant’s condition. Fresh coolant appears bright green, orange, or pink (depending on type), while old coolant looks rusty, muddy, or contains floating debris. If your coolant hasn’t been changed in two years or 30,000 miles, schedule a flush immediately. 
 
2. Inspect the Radiator for Blockages: Your radiator needs unrestricted airflow to function effectively. Pop the hood and visually inspect the radiator fins for accumulated dirt, leaves, bugs, or other debris. Use compressed air or a soft brush to gently clean between the fins. Be careful not to bend or damage these delicate components, as even minor damage can reduce cooling efficiency. 
 
3. Examine All Hoses and Connections: Rubber cooling system hoses deteriorate over time, especially when exposed to extreme heat. Squeeze each hose – they should feel firm but flexible. Look for signs of cracking, bulging, or soft spots that indicate weakness. Check all clamps and connections for tightness and signs of leakage. A small leak that’s manageable in winter can become a major problem when temperatures spike. 
 
4. Test Your Thermostat Function: A faulty thermostat can cause overheating by failing to open properly or opening too late. While you can’t easily test this component yourself, watch your temperature gauge during normal driving. If the needle climbs higher than usual or fluctuates erratically, have your thermostat inspected by a professional before hot weather arrives. 
 
5. Assess Your Water Pump Performance: The water pump circulates coolant throughout your engine, making it critical for temperature regulation. Listen for unusual whining or grinding noises from the engine bay, which could indicate bearing failure. Check for coolant leaks around the water pump housing. If your vehicle has high mileage or you notice these warning signs, consider having the water pump inspected or replaced preventively. 
 
6. Verify Cooling Fan Operation: Modern vehicles rely on electric cooling fans to pull air through the radiator when the vehicle isn’t moving fast enough to create natural airflow. With the engine running and air conditioning on, verify that the cooling fan activates. You should hear it running and feel air movement. If the fan doesn’t engage, diagnose the issue immediately – this is crucial for preventing overheating in traffic. 
 
7. Check Your Engine Oil: While not directly part of the cooling system, engine oil plays a vital role in heat management. Old, dirty oil loses its ability to lubricate effectively and carry heat away from engine components. Check your oil level and condition, ensuring it’s topped off with clean oil. If you’re due for an oil change, complete it before temperatures rise. 
 
8. Inspect Belts and Pulleys: The serpentine belt drives your water pump, alternator, and other crucial components. Examine the belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing. Check the belt tension – it should have slight give when pressed but shouldn’t be loose. Inspect pulleys for proper alignment and smooth operation. A broken belt during a heat wave can quickly lead to overheating and complete engine failure.

Stay Cool and Confident

By completing this comprehensive inspection before summer heat arrives, you’re taking control of your vehicle’s health and your peace of mind. Remember, prevention is always less expensive than emergency repairs. If you discover any issues during your inspection, address them promptly with a qualified technician. 

Don’t let a heat wave catch you unprepared – your car will thank you for the attention, and you’ll enjoy worry-free summer driving. 

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How Heat Affects Your Car: Late Summer Maintenance Tips

No Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Car Care Tips, Maintenance, Safety Tips

As the hot summer days continue into late August and early September, it’s important to remember that high temperatures can negatively impact your vehicle’s performance and condition. From the engine to the tires, various car parts experience additional strain during this season. Here are some late summer maintenance tips to ensure your car remains in tip-top shape despite the scorching temperatures.

Engine and Fluid Levels

Engine oil: Make it a habit to monitor your engine oil level frequently, especially if you’re planning a long trip. Hot weather can cause oil to thin out, so it’s important to ensure your car has sufficient oil to prevent engine damage.

Coolant: Your car’s coolant is crucial in preventing overheating. Check the coolant level and top it off if necessary. It’s also a good idea to inspect the hoses and belts associated with the cooling system, as these can crack or become brittle in the heat.

Transmission fluid: Don’t forget about your transmission fluid, as it, too, can be affected by high temperatures. Check the level and color—dark or burnt fluid may indicate a problem.

Other fluids: This includes power steering fluid, brake fluid, and even windshield washer fluid. All these fluids play an important role in the safe operation of your vehicle, so check their levels and top them up as needed.

Battery and Electrical System

Battery: Summer heat can be harsh on your car battery, causing it to wear out faster. Inspect the battery terminals regularly for any signs of corrosion and confirm if they are securely connected. If your battery is more than a few years old, consider having it tested by a professional to ensure it’s still in good condition.

Electrical system: The electrical system includes components like the alternator and starter motor. Any issues with these can leave you stranded, so it’s worth having them inspected by a qualified mechanic.

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Get Your Car Summer-Ready: Essential Seasonal Car Care Tips

No Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Car Care Tips, Maintenance, Safety Tips

With the arrival of summer, it’s time to give your car some attention and ensure it’s in top condition for the warmer months ahead. Proper car care not only ensures your vehicle looks good but also enhances its performance, enhances fuel efficiency, and ensures your safety on the road. In this blog, we’ll provide essential tips to prepare your car for summer and help you enjoy a hassle-free driving experience.

Summer Car Care: What You Need to Do

Wash and Wax

Start with a thorough cleaning. Winter and spring can leave behind salt, mud, and grime that accelerate rust and corrosion. Use a quality car shampoo and don’t forget the undercarriage. After washing, apply a quality coat of wax to protect your paint and shield it from the sun’s UV rays.

Check All Fluids

Summer heat puts stress on your car’s engine and systems. Check and top off essential fluids:

  • Engine oil
  • Coolant
  • Brake fluid
  • Power steering fluid
  • Windshield washer fluid

Look for any leaks and refer to your owner’s manual for recommended types and intervals.

Inspect the Tires

Proper tire maintenance is vital:

  • Check tire pressure, including the spare.
  • Check the tread depth and inspect for any cracks or bulges.
  • Replace worn tires if needed.

Properly inflated and maintained tires improve fuel efficiency and driving safety.

Test the AC

Make sure your air conditioning is working efficiently. If the air isn’t cold or the airflow is weak, you might have a refrigerant issue or clogged condenser. Get it checked by a professional to stay cool all summer.

Change Your Wiper Blades

Wiper blades wear out and should be replaced if they’re streaking or ineffective. Summer storms can hit unexpectedly—good wipers and a water-repellent treatment for your windshield can make a big difference.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

For peace of mind during road trips, pack:

  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Jumper cables
  • Basic tools
  • Portable air compressor
  • Reflective warning triangle
  • Non-perishable snacks and water
  • Fully charged phone and portable chargers

Keep It Covered

If your car is parked outside, a quality car cover helps protect against:

  • UV damage
  • Bird droppings
  • Tree sap
  • Summer storms

It also keeps your car cooler inside.

Wrapping Up

By following these simple car care tips, your vehicle will be ready for all your summer adventures. Consistent maintenance and prompt repairs not only enhance your driving experience but also extend your car’s lifespan. If you’re ever unsure, reach out to a trusted auto repair shop for expert help.

Now you’re all set to hit the road and make some unforgettable summer memories!

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Quiz Your New Driver Before They Hit the Road

No Comment Auto Body Shop Consumer Tips, Car Care Tips, Maintenance, Quizzes

Letting a new driver loose on the roads can be nerve-wracking. Luckily, you can help your teen to be better prepared by giving them this quiz.

1.     What should you do if you spot an emergency vehicle with its lights on?

a. Pull over to the left
b. Ignore it 
c. Pull over to the right 
d. Let it pass and then follow it

2.     What do you need to always have with you while driving?

a. License
b. Registration 
c. Insurance card
d. All of the above

3.     When can you turn right on red?

a. Anytime
b. After making a complete stop
c. When there is a sign that says “No turn on red”
d. All of the above 

4.     How loud should you play music?

a. As loud as you want
b. At a non-distracting level
c. Under 25 DB
d. None of the above

5.     Where are you likely to see a speed limit drop?

a. On the highway
b. Neighborhood roads
c. School zones
d. Both b & c are correct

6.     What should you do if your vehicle is hit?

a. Yell at the other driver
b. Drive away if the damage isn’t bad
c. Ensure the safety of passengers and yourself, then exchange information like phone numbers and insurance information.
d. None of the above

The next section will include fill-in-the-blank questions. These will be specific to the vehicle your teen drives:

  1. Where is the parking break?
  2. How do you use the windshield wipers?
  3. How do you use the windshield wiper fluid?
  4. Where is the child lock?
  5. How do you turn off the child lock?
  6. What is the legal maximum number of passengers you may drive?
  7. Where is the spare tire?

ANSWERS: 

1.     What should you do if you spot an emergency vehicle with its lights on?

Answer: C. Pull over to the right. This is a good rule of thumb for new drivers to know. However, it’s important to explain that there will be times when they need to move in other directions for an emergency vehicle to pass. The bottom line is to ensure the vehicle can pass in an orderly fashion. 

2.   What do you need to always have with you while driving?

Answer: D. All of the above. In the event you are in a car accident or get pulled over, you will need these documents present to deal with each situation. Always make sure to have these with you when driving your car, even for a short distance.

3.     When can you turn right on red?

Answer: B. After making a complete stop. Although you can turn right on red as long as there is no sign prohibiting it, you must still be sure to come to a complete stop before turning. 

4.     How loud should you play your music? 

Answer: B. At a non-distracting level. While there is no federal law that limits the volume level of music in a car, a new driver should always be focused on the road first. Ensure that music is kept at an appropriate level that still allows you to focus on the road. 

5.     Where are you likely to see a speed limit drop?

Answer: D. Both b & c are correct. Expecting a speed limit drop and knowing when to slow down will help keep these areas safe while also keeping a driver out of trouble. 

6.     What should you do if your vehicle is hit?

Answer: C. Ensure the safety of passengers and yourself, then exchange information like phone numbers and insurance information. Although we hope these situations never happen, it’s good to be prepared for if they do. When your vehicle is hit, the first important thing is the safety of everyone involved. After that is secured, the driver can decide whether to call 911 or simply exchange information with the other driver. A 911 call would depend on the severity of the collision and the discretion of the driver.

No matter how prepared your teen is, accidents can still occur. If one does, use Carwise to help find an Auto Body shop near you: carwise.com/auto-body-shops

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How to Protect Your Car from Road Salt

No Comment Maintenance

When winter weather strikes, salt and sand are excellent tools to help provide a safe road for drivers. Salt helps melt the ice even when temperatures are below freezing, and sand helps keep the salt in place.

But while salt and sand help your car grip the road in less-than-favorable weather, it can also spell trouble for a car’s finish or even cause vehicle damage.

Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to help protect your car this winter.

Wash & Wax the Exterior of Your Car

Getting a car wash isn’t just something for the spring and summer months. In fact, keeping your car washed and waxed regularly in the winter is one of the best things you can do to prevent salt and sand damage to your vehicle. Cars should be washed, if possible, every two weeks during the winter, including the undercarriage where salt can get stuck. Vehicles also should be washed after each snowfall, if possible. Winter often also means cold temperatures. If it’s below freezing, hold off on your car wash until the temperature rises. Otherwise, water may freeze on your car’s surface and cause damage, too.  

As for waxing, cars should be waxed every three months during the year. Be sure to get your car waxed before the first snowfall is expected in your area and consider applying a ceramic coating for added protection.

Clean the Car’s Tires

Snow and ice can get stuck and freeze in your car’s wheel wells – often taking salt, sand, or even bits of dirt or asphalt with them. Over time, these can damage your car’s undercarriage or the wheel well. Be sure to clear debris from around the wheels before you hit the road, and target these areas when washing your car in the winter.

Plan Your Driving Around Weather (if possible)

These days, roads are almost always pre-treated ahead of an expected snowfall or ice storm. That means salt is on the road even before the first snowflake falls.

If possible, plan your travel around snowstorms, opting not to drive the day prior to, during, or the day after a snowfall. This can help minimize the amount of salt your car encounters (and help you avoid possible dangerous driving conditions). Of course, avoiding driving entirely isn’t always possible. If you do have to drive, be mindful of avoiding potholes and puddles, which can collect dirt, salt, and other items that could damage your car.

Keep an Eye on the Interior

With road salt, the exterior of a car often gets the most attention, but it’s important to care for your car’s interior too. Salt and grime can be tracked in on your shoes during the winter, quickly staining the carpet.

To prevent this, you can put down plastic weather floor mats to help protect the inside of your car. If you do track in any salt, be sure to vacuum and clean the carpeting or seats promptly to help prevent staining.

Touch Up Paint Chips

Salt can corrode metal quickly, especially on paint that’s damaged. If your car has any chips or scratches to the paint job, be sure to repair them promptly – ideally before the first snowfall. This will help protect the actual body of your car from damage and prevent the paint job from deteriorating further.

Need help repairing chips or scratches? Carwise.com can help you find a body shop near you to help with all your car maintenance needs. Search your zip code today to get started: carwise.com/auto-body-shops

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Your Car’s Maintenance Plan for the New Year

No Comment Maintenance

A new year means a new opportunity to give your car the care it deserves. Whether you treated yourself to a new car at the end of the year, or you’re hoping to extend the life of your current vehicle, regular maintenance is key to keeping your car running at its best. 

Most maintenance is recommended on a 30-60-90 schedule, meaning there are items to check at 30,000, 60,000, and 90,000 miles. But there’s also maintenance that should be done more routinely. 

In this article, learn how to get your car on a maintenance schedule, and what you should be checking routinely. This is general information – always consult your vehicle’s manual for specific guidance. 

Routine and Seasonal Maintenance

Some items are easy for you to check yourself if you’re comfortable doing so. Items to inspect regularly include: 

Each season you should also:

Maintenance to do at 30,000 miles

Once your vehicle hits 30,000 miles – or even before – there are two big items you should have checked: 

  • Air filter
  • Fuel filter

If you live in a dusty area, you’ll want your air filter checked even sooner. Some car manuals suggest checking your fuel filter around 30,000 miles too, so be sure to have that checked. 

Maintenance to do at 60,000 miles

Once your car has reached 60,000 miles on the road, the list of things to check gets a little longer. You’ll want to have the following things inspected: 

  • Battery
  • Brake fluid
  • Brake pad/shoes
  • Brake rotors
  • Coolant
  • Transmission fluid

While some of these things you can check yourself, it’s worth taking your car into a shop for these. A lot of vehicle issues can crop up around 60,000 miles, so it’s important to have an expert check all these items to make sure your vehicle is running like it should, and to prevent future issues.

Maintenance to do at 90,000 miles 

Once your car has hit 90,000 miles, it’s seen quite a bit of road. As your car ages and racks up the miles, maintenance becomes crucial to keep your car drivable for as long as possible. Items to check at 90,000 miles include:

  • Hoses
  • Power steering fluid
  • Spark plugs/ignition system
  • Timing belt

A lot of those items noted above can actually need replacing as early as 75,000 miles – which is why the 60,000 mile check-up is so important. At 90,000 miles, be sure to take your car into the shop, but also always keep an eye out for any weird sounds, smells, or driving issues. When in doubt, take your car into the shop – it’s always better to find and fix problems sooner rather than later. 

Need help finding a shop for your car’s maintenance? Use Carwise.com to search tens of thousands of shops around the country, and to read real reviews from recent customers. See qualifications, certifications and more at Carwise.com: carwise.com/auto-body-shops. 

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How Is Maintenance for an Electric Vehicle Different than a Gas-Run Vehicle?

No Comment Auto Body Shop Owner Tips, Maintenance

Electric cars (EVs) may very well become the default type of car in the future. Industry trends indicate that the sale of EVs has been steadily rising, and the market will soon reach a tipping point of favoring them over traditional, internal combustion engine vehicles.

Maintenance of Electric Vehicles vs Fuel-Run Vehicles

You may be curious about how maintenance of EVs differ than fuel-run vehicles. Because the engine on an EV is so different, so is the maintenance. Electric engines don’t require things like oil changes, transmission servicing, or replacing the air filters, spark plugs or drive belts.

Some maintenance items will always need maintenance, whether you drive an EV or fuel-run vehicle. Tires will need to be replaced or maintained on a typical car schedule, with periodic rotation and replacement. Brakes, by contrast, tend to need replacing at a much lower rate than on a fuel-run car due to the different engine type. For specific recommendations, it’s always best to refer to your car’s user manual.

As far as differences between the two, EVs require coolant flushes or refrigerant recharges, which a fuel-run vehicle doesn’t need. This should be done every five years, or as directed by your vehicle’s manual.

Maintaining an Electric Vehicle Battery

Sometimes, an electric car’s battery pack or motor will need to be replaced. This can be very expensive and requires specially-trained mechanics – but don’t worry. These parts are designed to last a very long time, often with long warranties to match.

There are some things you can do to extend the electric car’s battery life, including:

  • Avoid routinely fully charging and fully depleting the battery. This can wear out your battery more quickly. Fortunately, many manufacturers actually don’t let a battery become fully charged, helping to mitigate this issue.
  • Avoid extremely hot or cold temperatures when you can, as they can negatively impact an EV’s battery. Cars are built to handle these changes, so don’t panic if you can’t avoid extreme heat or cold, but they can wear down your battery over time.
  • Avoid “fast chargers” – chargers that promise to charge your car’s battery very quickly. Slower charging methods are preferred, as they’re gentler on a battery.

Are Electric Vehicles Harder to Repair after an Accident?

So, what’s it like if your electric vehicle is ever in an accident? In a recent report by CCC Intelligent Solutions, industry data showed that while EVs are more likely to be able to drive away after a collision than fuel-run vehicles, EV repairs can cost up to three percent more due to the complex technology systems that make those vehicles run. On the one hand, electric vehicles are simpler than their fuel-run counterparts because they have fewer systems, yet those systems are more complex and require different calibration methods and advanced technology to repair. Like most vehicle purchases, it’s all about finding the right trade-offs to suit your needs, preferences and budget: with an electric vehicle, you’ll pay far less in fuel costs and routine maintenance than with a gas-powered car, but you may need to pay more if your EV ever needs a repair following an accident.

Find a Collision Repair Shop Near You

If your electric vehicle is ever in an accident, Carwise.com is here to help you find the right collision repair shop near you to get it back in working condition. Carwise.com can make the search simple, showing shop certifications for EV repairs, reviews from real customers, before and after photos, shop hours and location. Start your search of more than 21,000 shops today: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/.

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Car Maintenance Basics to Prevent Dangerous Driving Experiences

No Comment Maintenance

Much like getting an annual physical exam at the doctor can help prevent health issues down the road, regular maintenance for your vehicle can help prevent accidents and extend the life of your vehicle. But how often does maintenance need to be done, and what should you be doing? Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should have all the information for your car’s specific make and model, but there are some general guidelines to keep in mind.

Check Your Car’s Fluids Regularly

There are some simple things you can do at home to check the fluids on your car, including oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and washer fluid. Using a dipstick, you can check these levels yourself, or you can bring it into a trusted shop.

Checking the oil regularly will help preserve your engine and should be changed on a schedule – usually every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Neglecting to change your oil on time can lead to severe engine damage and put you in a dangerous situation while driving. Your transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant and washer fluid can be checked monthly at home, or every time you get your oil changed.

Keep an Eye on Your Tires

Tires are one of the most important parts of your car – they literally support the entire vehicle. You should check the tire pressure monthly and can likely do this at a gas station and adjust the air as necessary. Your owner’s manual should have guidance on the correct level for your vehicle, but you can also find this information quickly in an online search.

Tire rotation is also important to make sure that your tires wear evenly. Generally, tire rotation should happen every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.

Monitor Your Brakes

You should always pay attention to any signs that there are issues with your brakes, such as sounds, smells, or changes in the feeling of braking. But generally, brake pads last for up to 50,000 miles. Brake fluid needs to be replaced a bit sooner, usually between 20,000 and 45,000 miles. You should have these checked when your car’s in for other maintenance to be sure.

Other Routine Maintenance Needs

Of course, cars are complex, and there are many other aspects that need to be checked on regularly, from engine air filters to the car’s battery. Your car’s indicator lights can help you keep tabs on these things.

You should also keep an eye out for surface damage to your car, from chips and cracks on your windshield and windows, to rust and scratches that can compromise the body of your vehicle. These things may seem minor but can lead to accidents or incur further damage when neglected.

It’s best to bring your vehicle in regularly – every 30,000 miles or so – for a tune-up and check-in on all of the advanced systems. Keeping your vehicle in good working condition will help you stay safe on the roads and prevent dangerous driving situations that could lead to an accident.

Find An Auto Body Shop Near You

Still, accidents can happen, whether it’s a minor fender from a flat tire or something more severe. If you are in a crash as the result of an engine problem or other mechanical issue, Carwise can help. To find a reputable auto body shop near you, search Carwise.com and read reviews from real customers, find shop hours and locations, before and after photos, and certifications. With more than 21,000 shops to choose from, Carwise.com will help you find your perfect fit. Get started today: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops /.

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Four Things to Know About Maintaining Your Truck

No Comment Car Care Tips, Maintenance

Data shows that out of all the cars on the road, light trucks continue to be the most popular vehicle by sale. Light-duty trucks can be great for hauling, but all of that weight can also have an impact on different parts of the vehicle, from tires and brakes to the engine. Fortunately, routine maintenance you can help preserve the life of your truck. Below, find four tips to help your truck stay on the road for as long as possible.

1 – Change the engine oil and filter regularly.

If you’re using your truck to haul things frequently, like a boat or work equipment, it can put a strain on your truck’s powerful engine. While changing the engine oil and filter is important maintenance for every type of vehicle, it’s especially important for trucks because of the added stress it sustains from bearing extra weight – from the auto body itself, as well as your vehicle load. Information on how often to change these items can be found in your truck’s manual.

While in the shop, have them check the other fluid levels as well and top any off that are running low.

2 – Inspect the brakes frequently.

Brakes can wear out quickly on a truck, as the extra weight of heavy loads can strain them, so it’s always a good to ask for your brakes to be inspected when you’re getting other routine maintenance done, like an oil change. Generally, a truck’s brake pads will last around 50,000 miles – but it could be sooner, depending on usage.

Keep an eye out for signs that your truck’s brakes are wearing down: your truck’s indicator lights if you have a newer model, the thickness of the brake pads, or physical cues when you brake: vibrations, squeaking, or the scent of burnt rubber.

3 – Rotate tires routinely.

Rotating your truck’s tires regularly can help make sure they wear out at the same rate. Typically, tires should be rotated every 5,000-7,000 miles on a truck, though if you’re frequently hauling heavy loads in your truck or driving many miles, you might need a rotation sooner. Be sure to have the tires inspected during other regular maintenance.

4 – Prevent paint corrosion and rust.

One thing that can spell the end for any vehicle is corrosion and rust – and trucks may be especially susceptible if you take them off road or through muddy, gravelly conditions. If you do go through mud or get debris on your car, be sure to take it through a car wash or wash it yourself promptly to prevent damage to your car’s finish. Additionally, any scratches to the paintjob should be promptly repaired to prevent rust from beginning to form.

Find An Auto Body Shop Near You

As a truck owner, you want your truck to stay in the best shape it possibly can and you want it to be safe on the road. Still, accidents happen or sometimes you need auto body repairs to prevent further damage to your vehicle.  If your truck needs collision repair, auto glass repair, or auto body maintenance to repair rust or scratches, Carwise can help. To find a reputable auto body shop near you, search Carwise.com and read reviews from real customers, find shop hours and locations, before and after photos, and certifications. With more than 21,000 shops to choose from, Carwise.com will help you find your perfect fit. Get started today: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops / .

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The Basics of Tire Maintenance

No Comment Maintenance

As temperatures get cooler and leaves will begin to fall, it’s a helpful reminder to pay attention to your car’s tires because road conditions can change with the weather. Tires are among the most important aspects of your vehicle when it comes to safety. They not only put your vehicle in motion, they help control how much you slip and slide (or don’t!) on the road. Neglecting tire maintenance can lead to a serious accident and incur far more damage and expenses than just paying to get tires repaired and replaced regularly.

As autumn approaches, here are a few tire maintenance tips to keep your vehicle safe on the road.

Inspect your tires regularly

Fortunately, many maintenance issues with tires can be seen with the naked eye. At least once a month, you should check your tires for any cracks, bulges or punctures, or items stuck in them that could be masking a puncture, like a nail head.

Additionally, you should keep an eye on your tires’ tread level. If your tires’ treads are too low, they’re more liable to slip and slide on roads. Many tires are equipped with a tread bar to help you track how low the tread is. If you don’t have a tread bar, you can try the quarter test: stick a quarter in the lowest level of tread you can find. If you can see all of Washington’s head, the tread is too low, and it’s time to replace.

Along with a visual inspection, be sure to check your tire pressure at least once a month. You can do this at most gas stations and adjust air as needed. In cold weather, tire pressure can drop, and tires with too little pressure pose a risk of blowing out. Take ten minutes when you fill up your tank to check the tire pressure.

And don’t forget to check your spare tire, too, to make sure it’s not damaged in case you ever need it.

Rotate your tires as needed

Another important aspect of tire maintenance is tire rotation, the practice of moving tires from one position on the vehicle to another (back to front and vice versa). Front tires wear down faster than rear tires as a result of steering and braking. Regular tire rotation helps tires wear evenly and last longer. Check your car’s user manual to be sure, but most tires need be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Rotating tires at every other oil change is another good rule of thumb to follow.

Don’t overload your vehicle

Whether going on a long trip or moving, it can be tempting to pack your car to the brim, but this can be a safety hazard. Every vehicle has a weight limit. Check your user manual – or even the placard on your door frame – to see what your own car’s weight limit is. If you exceed it, you risk popping the tires and doing serious damage to your vehicle.

Replace tires on time

Replacing tires can be expensive but risking a flat or popping a tire while driving could lead to an accident, so it’s not worth putting off. Tires should be replaced every few years, regardless of the number of miles driven, but depending on how often and how far you drive your vehicle, your tires will likely need to be replaced much sooner than that. Check your user manual to see if your manufacturer has specific recommendations for tire replacement.

Keep your wheels aligned

Tires are only as good as the wheels they’re attached to. When your car’s wheels come out of alignment, it puts unnecessary strain on other parts of your vehicle. Wheels can become misaligned from bumps, going over curbs or even just driving long distances. Check the alignment annually to be sure nothing’s amiss.

How to Avoid an Accident When You Get a Flat Tire

Flat or blown tires can happen anywhere, anytime, at any speed. Typically, the first sign that your tire has blown is that your car will slow down (even when your foot is on the gas) and your steering will be harder to control.

Try to remain calm and look for a safe place to pull over as soon as possible. For safety reasons, you need an open space as far away from traffic as possible to change your tire or load your vehicle onto a tow truck. If you get stuck with a flat tire in dangerous weather conditions or a dangerous area, such as a road with heavy traffic and narrow shoulders, you may want to consider calling the local police for assistance, as well as a tow truck.

If you’re replacing your damaged tire with a smaller spare, often called a “donut,” remember that it’s not designed to bear the same weight or speed as a permanent tire, so it’s important to drive more slowly than usual once you get back on the road, otherwise you could wind up with another flat tire and no spare. Donut tires are also not meant to be driven for very long; when possible, it’s best to drive directly to a tire shop for a permanent replacement. 

What to Do If a Flat Tire Causes an Accident

If a tire hazard causes you to get into an accident, be sure to follow these post-accident safety tips for gathering information from other drivers at the scene, contacting your auto insurer, and finding a local auto body shop. To find a reputable auto body shop near you, search Carwise.com and read reviews from real customers, find shop hours and locations, before and after photos, and certifications. With more than 21,000 shops to choose from, Carwise.com will help you find your perfect fit. Get started today: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/.

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