Experts give tire-care tips for colder weather

TEXARKANA, Texas — Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. encourages drivers to use the changing season as a reminder to check their tires and ensure they’re prepared for potentially challenging road conditions that autumn weather brings.

“Fall seasonal conditions produce some of the most challenging road hazards,” said Andrea Berryman, director of product development. “This time of year, drivers need to be aware of changing temperatures, increased rain and more debris on the roads.”

Tire pressure is impacted as temperatures fluctuate from chilly nights to warm day.

“On average, tire pressure decreases by about one pound per square inch for every 10-degree F drop in the temperature,” Berryman said. “It’s important to regularly check tire pressure rather than relying solely on the TPMS light, which alerts drivers when tire pressure is already too low. Proper pressure is critical to tires’ overall performance.”

Drivers need to make sure their tires have enough tread to prevent hydroplaning, she said. Wet roads paired with additional debris, like leaves on the road, create hazardous conditions.

“Driving on wet leaves can be like driving on ice,” Berryman said. “All the more reason tires need good tread to provide traction for braking and to prevent hydroplaning.

Additionally, colder weather can create potholes in the road and fallen leaves can hide those and other hazards that may cause damage to tires.

Drivers should conduct the following three simple maintenance checks to make sure their tires are in top condition this fall:

Check tire inflation pressure: Proper inflation allows drivers better control on the road and helps tires wear longer and more evenly. Check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge and ensure the pressure in each tire – including your spare — matches the ideal tire pressure for your vehicle, which is listed on the sticker inside your car door, glove box or fuel door, or in the car’s manual.

■ Inspect the tread depth: Proper tread depth helps tires maintain traction, improves handling and prevents hydroplaning. Drivers can check this by inserting the edge of a penny into the tread, with Lincoln going in headfirst. If the top of Lincoln’s head is covered, there is an acceptable amount of tread; if the top of his head is visible, then it’s time to replace the tire.

■ Check the overall condition: Damaged tires can shorten tire life or cause air loss. Look for cuts, cracks, splits, punctures or bulges on the exterior of the tire. If any of these conditions are spotted, or if you are unsure of the condition of your tires, visit a tire dealer for a professional inspection.

“Tires are the only thing connecting drivers to the road, so checking them regularly is important,” she said. “Drivers should conduct a quick tire check at least once a month. … this includes checking your spare tire. Whether driving long or short distances, ensuring your spare has proper inflation and is in good condition is important.”

Reviewing how to change a flat tire is also a good idea.

“Changing a flat tire is not as hard as one may think, it just requires a few simple steps,” Berryman said.