How to Make Your Tires Last Longer

How often do you typically replace your vehicle's tires? Tires don't last forever. You may only get 15,000 or 20,000 miles out of them before the tread has the degraded to the point where they need replacing. Considering that tires can cost up to $200 each, replacing them can be downright expensive. By following these tips, however, you can make your vehicle's tires last longer.

#1) Check Air Pressure

At least once a month, use a gauge to check the air pressure in each of your vehicle's tires. All tires are rated for a specific amount of air pressure, which is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). If your tires are underinflated or overinflated, they'll wear down more quickly. Therefore, you should check the air pressure at least once a month, and if necessary, inflate or deflate them to the appropriate PSI.

#2) Replace Missing or Broken Valve Caps

If you discover any missing or broken valve caps on your vehicle's tires, you should replace them as soon as possible. If a tire has a missing or broken valve cap, it may leak air. It may not cause the tire to immediately deflate, but it will cause a gradual loss of air that can shorten the tire's lifespan. Thankfully, valve caps are inexpensive and easy to replace.

#3) Get a Tire Rotation

Another tip to extend the life of your vehicle's tires is to get them rotated. What is a tire rotation exactly? It's an automotive service that involves changing the position of your vehicle's tires The front tires are typically rotated to the rear, whereas the rear tires are rotated to the front. The purpose of a tire rotation is to ensure even tread wear, which in turn prolongs the life of your vehicle's tires.

#4) Get Your Tires Balanced

Not to be confused with a tire rotation, a tire balancing service can help protect your vehicle's tires from premature wear and tear. Balancing is a more complex service that, as the name suggests, involves balancing your vehicle's tires to ensure all four -- or however many tires your vehicle has -- are even. Most automotive experts recommend getting your vehicle's tires balanced once every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.

#5) Avoid Dirt Roads

If possible, try to avoid driving on dirt roads. Without a paved surface, dirt roads will wear down the tread on your vehicle's tires more quickly. And as the tread wears, you may be forced to replaced them.