Summer is the season of road trips and vacations. But while you’re planning your next getaway, don’t forget about your car, especially your tires. During the summer months, your
tires might face some challenges. In this article, we’ll explore why tires get more worn out during the summer and how you can prevent this wear and tear. Moreover, we’ll answer some common questions regarding tire maintenance in the summer.
The Heat Factor
One of the primary reasons tires get more worn out during the summer is the heat. Tires are made from rubber, and as the temperature rises, the rubber becomes softer. This can cause the tires to lose tread more quickly. But that’s not all; the heat can also cause the air inside the tires to expand, which can lead to over-inflation. Over-inflation can cause excessive wear in the center tread of the tire and may even result in a blowout.
What happens to tires in summer?
When the rubber softens, the tire’s grip on the road increases. While this can be beneficial for traction, it can also cause faster tread wear. Moreover, the heat causes the tire to build up more internal heat, which can lead to tire failure if not properly managed. Jap Car Care has a great article on understanding the effects of heat on your tires, which can be a helpful resource.
What are the causes of tire heat and how can it be reduced?
The friction between the tires and the road is the primary cause of tire heat. As you drive, the tires are constantly in contact with the road, and this friction generates heat. During the summer, the ambient temperature is higher, and the road surface can become extremely hot, which adds to the heat generation. To reduce tire heat, ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires create more friction and heat. Moreover, try to avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day, and when you do drive, try to maintain a steady speed.
Do tires wear more in the summer?
Yes, for the reasons mentioned above, tires do wear more in the summer. The combination of heat, friction, and potential over-inflation can cause tires to wear out more quickly than in cooler months.
What is the reason why tires get punctured too often during summer?
Besides wear and tear, tires are also more susceptible to punctures during the summer. This is because the softened rubber is more likely to be penetrated by sharp objects on the road. Additionally, the heat can cause the rubber to weaken, making it less resilient to impacts and more prone to punctures.
Preventing Wear and Tear
Now that we understand the challenges faced by tires during the summer, let’s look at how to prevent wear and tear.
Regularly Check Tire Pressure
Checking your tire pressure regularly is essential. Ensure that your tires are inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You can find this information in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Jap Car Care offers a tire pressure monitoring service that can help keep your tires in check.
Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires can help ensure that they wear evenly. This involves changing the position of each tire on your car. It’s usually recommended to do this every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
Choose The Right Tires
Summer or all-season tires are designed to perform better in hot conditions. If you live in an area with hot summers, consider investing in tires that are well-suited for these conditions.
Avoid Aggressive DrivingAvoid sudden accelerations, hard braking, and taking turns at high speeds, as these actions can cause your tires to wear out more quickly. Drive smoothly and anticipate stops to reduce the strain on your tires.
Proper Alignment and Balancing
Ensure that your wheels are properly aligned and balanced. Misaligned or unbalanced wheels can cause uneven wear on your tires. It is recommended to have your wheels aligned and balanced at least once a year, or as advised by your mechanic.
Be Mindful of Road Conditions
During the summer, the roads can get really hot and might have debris. Being mindful of where you’re driving and avoiding debris or sharp objects can help in reducing the risk of punctures.
Summing It Up
Taking care of your tires during the summer months is critical to ensure the safety and performance of your vehicle. By understanding the effects of heat on your tires and taking steps to maintain proper tire pressure, rotate your tires, choose the right kind of tires, and drive responsibly, you can greatly reduce the wear and tear on your tires during the summer.
Remember that well-maintained tires not only last longer but also contribute to a safer driving experience. Don’t hesitate to consult with professionals for tire maintenance and care. Check out Jap Car Care for a range of services that can help keep your vehicle in top shape.
Stay safe on the roads this summer by giving your tires the care they deserve.
