Latest Articles Posted  Tire Tips For Safe Driving


Just as drivers must be prepared to respond to ever-changing weather conditions, so too must their cars. Tires, being the only contact between your car and the road, are an essential component of car safety.



Are your tires safe? Use this checklist to find out:

• Measure the pressure in each of your tires – including the spare – once a month when temperatures change suddenly, or before you leave for a long trip.
  
  Under- or over-inflated tires could affect your ability to accelerate, brake or steer by affecting safety devices like anti-lock braking systems (ABS), traction control systems (TCS) and stability control systems. Properly inflated tires last longer, lower fuel consumption and reduce exhaust emissions. Studies have found that up to 49% of vehicles being driven in Canada had at least one improperly inflated tire at any time. (Source: The Rubber Association of Canada, 2010, www.betiresmart.ca)
  
  
• Ensure your tires match. Are all the tires on your car the same size and type, with the same speed rating and load index? Mixing tire tread patterns, sizes or construction type degrades vehicle stability and handling. Use the tire size recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
  
  
• Are your tires suitable for the driving conditions you may encounter? High and wide performance tires may be suitable for summer travel, but, unless specifically designed for all seasons, may not work well on snow-covered roads. Similarly, winter tires cannot withstand use on hot summer pavement. Remove winter tires come spring. This is mandatory for studded winter tires.
  
  Knowing how to read the markings on tires will help you assess their suitability.
  
  The image on the left is used with "snow tires" (i.e. tires specifically designed for use in severe snow conditions).
  
  Tires marked with “M+S” are “mud and snow” or “all season” tires. They may not be appropriate for severe winter conditions until roads are treated.
  
  
• Are your tires “tired”? Once a month, check each of your tires for substantial tread wear or any other signs of potential failure, including cuts, cracks or bulges.
  
  Rotating your tires regularly and keeping your car aligned will help reduce risky tire fatigue.
  
  Transport Canada recommends that you register your tires with the manufacturer upon purchase so you will be notified if they come under any safety recalls.
  
  
• Check your lug nuts. Are they fastened securely? If you replace or rotate your car’s tires yourself, make sure you use the proper tools to ensure your tires stay on your car and on the job.

For more information on road and motor vehicle safety, visit Transport Canada’s website at: www.tc.gc.ca. Take care of your tires before an accident occurs.