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6 Misconceptions About Tires and Car Maintenance

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Colorful Tires Plain Black

Your tires are one of the most important components of your car, but they could also be the least understood feature. There are opposing theories as to how to properly maintain your tires, as well as different rules for different cars and different tires, but these rules can end up confusing inexperienced drivers. Determine which of these rules are noteworthy and which are just myths that should be debunked.

Myth #1: All cars come with spare tires.

Back in the day, it used to be standard to fit every new car with a spare tire, but that is no longer true. Now, for purposes of fuel efficiency and space saving, many cars don’t come with a spare tire in the trunk. Instead, you’ll get an opportunity to purchase a new set of tires for a cheaper option.

Myth #2: Rotate your tires once a year.

Most automobile bloggers will recommend that you rotate your tires at least once a year; instead, you should rotate them every 5,000 to 8,000 miles which also coincides with recommended oil change intervals. The easiest way to remember this is to do the oil change and the tire rotation at the same time. Rotating the tires regularly allows the wear and tear to affect all tires evenly, so when it’s time to replace one it’s time to replace them all. When checking your tires, you should also look out for cracks and bulges and if you find any you can call in a mobile tire fitting team to fix them in your driveway.

Myth #3: Look on the tire to determine ideal pressure.

Many drivers are told that this is where they should look to find out the ideal tire inflation pressure number. The main purpose of these numbers is to indicate to drivers what size and what type of tire you have as well as the maximum cold inflation. To find the recommended tire pressure, check the label inside the vehicle’s driver-side door or in the owner’s manual.

Myth #4: Winter tires are only for snow.

The understanding that all winter tires are specifically for snow only is laughable. The rubber compounds and other components that go into winter tires keep them flexible in both cold and warm temperatures. This flexibility allows the tires to provide better handling and stopping speed.

Myth #5: Engine oil must be changed every 3,000 miles.

It used to be true that the ideal oil change interval was every 3,000 miles, but improvements in oil quality have changed things. Depending on your driving habits and the type of car you drive, you can stretch your engine oil to last beyond the 3,000-mile interval. Check your owner’s manual to find out your manufacturer’s recommendation.

Myth #6: Thinking you’re a safer driver than you are.

Finally, it is no surprise that most drivers think that they are better and safer at driving than they are. Studies have shown that an overwhelming majority of drivers class themselves as “safe drivers.”  But the truth is that other drivers probably don’t classify you as above-average.

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