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Temperatures continue to rise as spring approaches Bakersfield, California. The official date for the season's return is March 20th, but it's easy to feel like spring is here now. At Clerou Tire Co. Inc., the change of the seasons serves as a perfect reminder to keep up on tire maintenance. Proper tire maintenance not only enhances your vehicle's performance but also contributes to your safety on the road. 

Now, if you're proactive with tire care, you may know these upcoming tips by heart at this point, but consider this your reminder to go check your tires and look at the last time you had different services performed. A longer amount of time may have passed than you realized, or perhaps you drove more than you thought you would. This tends to happen when life gets busy, and one thing that's likely for many drivers around the area is that they will be even busier in spring and summer, when it's nice to drive around, complete errands, and tackle gardening and home improvement projects.

In other words, now is the perfect time to go take care of your tires!

Spring Maintenance Tire Tips and Reminders

Tire Pressure: First and foremost, check the tire pressure. As temperatures rise, tire pressure can fluctuate, leading to under-inflated or over-inflated tires. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure when the tires are cold. This means you shouldn't check your tire pressure levels after driving around; the tires will still run hot from the drive and provide inaccurate readings. Refer to your vehicle’s owner manual or the sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended pressure levels. Maintaining the correct tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and promotes even tire wear.

Tread Depth: Next, inspect the tread depth of your tires. Adequate tread depth provides better traction, especially during rainy spring days. You can perform a simple test using a penny; insert it into the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. Some tires also have wear bar indicators, so you can quickly see when the tires need to be replaced. In Bakersfield, where sudden rainstorms can occur, having good tread will help prevent hydroplaning and improve handling.

Overall Condition: Additionally, take a close look at your tires for any signs of damage. Look for cracks, bulges, irregular tread wear patterns, or foreign objects embedded in the rubber. These issues compromise your tire's integrity and lead to blowouts. If you notice any damage, consult a professional to determine whether you need a repair or a replacement.

Rotation: Rotating your tires is another vital maintenance step. Tires wear differently based on their position on the vehicle, so rotating them helps ensure even wear across the set. This is important, because it's best to replace all tires and is not recommended to drive with tires at vastly different tread depths. It is generally recommended to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. If you have a full-size spare tire, ask about including it in the rotation schedule. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations tailored to your vehicle.

Alignment: Finally, have an alignment check performed yearly and whenever you install new tires, as well as if you notice signs of misalignment, such as uneven tire wear or your vehicle pulling to one side while driving. Proper wheel alignment ensures that your tires meet the road at the correct angle, which improves handling and prolongs tire life. A professional alignment service can help keep your vehicle running smoothly as you enjoy the springtime roads in Bakersfield.

Tire Maintenance in Bakersfield, CA

Tires require maintenance year-round, including spring. Sometimes it's just the monthly DIY tire checks, but other tires you may be due for a tire service. By checking tire pressure, inspecting tread depth and condition, rotating tires regularly, and ensuring proper alignment, you can enhance both safety and performance. If you need any tire services in Bakersfield, CA, visit Clerou Tire Co. Inc. We want you to roll into the beautiful spring season with your tires in top condition so you can enjoy each day to its fullest.