When replacing tires on a vehicle, it is recommended and preferred that all four tires be replaced at the same time for continued optimal vehicle performance. However, for those cases where this is not feasible, below are some general guidelines to consider when replacing less than four tires for a light vehicle, whether it is one or two tires. If the vehicle manufacturer has alternate recommendations, always follow their recommendations.
Replacing two (2) tires - The pair of replacement tires selected should be the same size and construction as those on the vehicle and the two newer tires should be installed on the rear axle. Generally new tires with deeper tread will provide better grip and evacuate water more effectively, which is important as a driver approaches hydroplaning situations. Placing greater traction on the rear axle on when surfaces is necessary to prevent a possible oversteer condition and loss of vehicle stability.
Replacing one (1) tire - Replacing a single tire on a vehicle can have an adverse affect on suspension systems, gear ratios, transmission, and tire tread-wear. If a single tire replacement is unavoidable, it is recommended that the single new tire be paired with the tire that has the deepest tread and both be placed on the rear axle. Placing the greater traction the rear axle on wet surfaces is necessary to prevent a possible oversteer condition and loss of vehicle stability.
Our new tires will probably feel different from the tires that were replaced. Drive carefully as you become familiar with their performance and handling. Take special care when braking, accelerating, cornering, or when driving in the rain, because these are the times when the differences will be most noticeable.
Tires often give their owners signs of problems in plenty of time to have them corrected. Learn to "read" these early warning signs and you can prevent many wear problems that shorten tire life by thousands of miles.
Many tires have tread wear indicator bars molded into the tread. When the tread is worn down to where you can see a solid bar of rubber across the width of the tread, it is time to replace the tire. Here's another simple test you can perform to measure tread depth on your tires. Place a penny into a tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time to get a new tire.
Due to the variety of styles, construction features, treat compounds, vehicle applications, geographical conditions and driving habits, it is difficult to provide specific mileage expectancy. Many of our tires feature specific mileage warranties, including some tires that are used as original equipment.
Proper inflation is the single most important part of tire care. The inflation pressure on the side of the tire is the MAXIMUM operating pressure. It is not necessarily the right inflation for your vehicle. Always use the inflation recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. You can find it in your owner's manual, posted on the edge of the driver's door, on a door post, in the center console, or on the inside of the glovebox door. Always check inflation when tires are COLD: when the vehicle has been driven less than a mile or one hour or more after driving. Use a good quality tire gauge. Note: It's natural for radial tires to have a slight bulge in the sidewall at their proper inflation pressure. Check or adjust inflation every few weeks, before any long trip or if traveling with a heavy load. And don't forget to check the spare.
If a tire loses all or most of its air pressure, it must be removed from the wheel for a complete internal inspection to be sure it's not damaged. Tires that are run even short distances while flat are often damaged beyond repair. Most punctures, nail holes, or cuts up to 1/4 inch -- confined to the tread -- may be satisfactorily repaired by trained personnel using industry-approved methods. Don't repair tires with tread punctures larger than 1/4 inch, or with any sidewall puncture. Also, never repair tires that are worn below 1/16 inch tread depth. Your best bet is to make sure your spare tire is always ready to do the job. Check it regularly for proper air pressure and be sure that it is in good shape. If your car is equipped with one of the several types of temporary spares, be sure to check the spare tire's sidewall for the correct inflation pressure, speed, and mileage limitations.
Never try to mount your own tires. Tire mounting is a job for the people who have the proper equipment and experience. If you try to do it yourself, you run the risk of serious injury to yourself as well as possible damage to the tire and rim.
Never choose a smaller size than those that came with the car. Tires should always be replaced with the same size designation -- or approved options -- as recommended by the vehicle.
Road hazard injuries (punctures, cuts, impact damage to the liner, ply material or sidewall rubber).
Valve stem or valve core leakage (damaged or aged rubber stem or a loose or damaged valve core).
Leaking from the bead seating area (corrosive buildup on the wheels which prevents a proper seal between the wheel flange and the tire beads, bead seating area damage from accidental mounting or dismounting injury, foreign material between the rim flange area and the tire bead seating area, bent rim flange).
When you depress your brake pedal,"Brake Fluid" is released to each of your vehicle's front wheels. The brake fluid compresses "Brake Pads" against the revolving "Rotors", which are attached to your wheels. The friction between the brake pad and the rotor slow and stop the vehicle.
If you experience pedal pulsation,excessive pedal travel,"hard" or "soft" depression,then you should have your brakes inspected immediately. These indications could be a result of a leak in the hydraulic system, low fluid levels or unevenly worn brake pads.
Wheel alignment is the adjustment of angles made by the front wheels in relation to the vehicle's suspension,the rear wheels,the road and each other. Proper alignment ensures that your vehicle will benefit from the following:
Reduced Tire Wear adding thousands of miles to tire life
Better Gas Mileage as rolling resistance is decreased
Improved Handling by minimizing pulling to one side and steering wheel vibration
Both Shocks & Struts are designed to control excessive spring motion of your vehicle, ensuring that your tires maintain contact with the road and that bumps in the road are absorbed. Additionally, struts are a working component of your vehicle's suspension.
Worn shocks or struts can result in excessive vehicle bounce,sway,dive during braking or perhaps a noise corresponding with an uneven road surface.
Properly maintaining your tires by frequently checking their air pressure will ensure a longer tire life, better fuel economy and better performance.
Use a Tire Pressure Gauge to accurately inspect pressure at least one hour before driving. Keep your tires inflated to your manufacturer's recommended pressure, which is located on a placard or sticker on your car (see your owner's manual for the exact location).
Often inspect your tires for Uneven Wear, Excessive Wear, or Frequent Deflation.
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