The Importance of a Spring Tire Checkup
When we think of spring cleaning, taking an inventory of vehicle maintenance may not come to mind. However, it’s important to check your tires after winter driving, as colder weather can take its toll. It’s particularly important to give your vehicle a “spring checkup” if you've gone on road trips over the holidays or experienced extreme winter weather to ensure that tread wear and air pressure are still at optimal levels for safety and performance.
The Effects of Winter Driving
This past winter saw unpredictable weather in many regions of the US, with some states experiencing uncharacteristic snowfall. If your vehicle didn’t have winter or all-weather tires installed, they may have undergone more wear and tear than usual. Additionally, cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, and driving over rough, debris-filled roads can lead to uneven wear or hidden damage. By the time spring arrives, your tires may be under-inflated, misaligned, or worn down more than expected. A quick inspection can help catch these problems early before they turn into costly repairs or dangerous situations.
We recommend using the following checklist for your spring checkup:
1. Check Tire Pressure
One of the simplest yet most important steps is checking your tire pressure. Temperature changes can significantly affect it, even in tires that were properly inflated prior to winter. They may now be over- or under-inflated as the weather warms up. Proper tire pressure improves fuel efficiency, extends tire life, and ensures better handling on the road. It only takes a few minutes to check it, but it pays off every time you drive, especially as gas prices continue to rise.
2. Inspect Tread Depth and Wear
Your tire tread is what keeps your car gripping the road, especially during spring rain showers. Worn-out tread reduces traction and increases the risk of hydroplaning. A simple way to check tread depth is the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace your tires. Also, look for uneven wear patterns. These could signal alignment or suspension issues that should be addressed sooner rather than later. For a more in-depth guide on how to check tread depth, read our previous blog.
3. Look for Visual Damage
Cracks, bulges, punctures, or embedded objects are all warning signs that your tires need professional attention. Even minor damage can worsen over time, especially with increased driving in spring and summer. If anything looks off, don’t take chances — have a professional inspect it.
4. Consider a Rotation and Alignment
Spring is also a great time to rotate your tires if you haven’t done so in a while. Regular rotation ensures even wear, helping your tires last longer and perform better. Similarly, if your car pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates, it might be time for an alignment check. These issues can worsen tire wear and impact handling.
5. Prepare for Spring and Summer Travel
With weekend getaways and extended summer road trips ahead, your tires need to be ready for longer drives and warmer pavement. Check that the tires you currently have are the right type for the next season and destinations you are planning to drive to, i.e. if you have winter tires on your car, you may want to switch to all-season or all-weather for the rest of the year. Using the optimal type of tire for your driving purposes and climate will improve performance and comfort, as well as provide better fuel economy.
Be Springtime Ready!
Checking your tires might not be the most exciting spring task, but it’s one of the most important. A few minutes of inspection and maintenance can save you money, improve your car’s safety and performance, and most importantly, give you the springtime confidence to face the road ahead.
For more safe driving tips, check out this previous blog article:
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