Car Care Experts Give Tire Tips

Car Care Experts give Tire Tips that save money and promote safer driving. And aren't car safety and saving money something we are all interested in?

(NAPSI)-Car care experts urge vehicle owners to pay special attention to four of the most important features on their car or truck-their tires. Regular tire maintenance saves money and promotes safer driving.

"We know many drivers may be tempted to put off vehicle maintenance to save money," said David Campbell of GM Goodwrench. "But neglecting your tires can cost more money in the long run and put you, your passengers and other drivers at risk if your tire fails on the road."

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries occur each year as a result of crashes attributed to low tire pressure.

Here are four things you need to know to care for your tires:

1. Rotate Tires

Because each tire on a vehicle performs different tasks, they wear at different rates. Regular rotations allow tires to wear and wear out evenly, minimizing tire noise and allowing tires to be replaced in sets of four, which is preferable. Check the owner's manual for recommended rotation intervals, but every 7,500 miles is the average.

Irregular tread wear occurs fastest when the tire is at full tread depth, so the first rotation is especially important.

2. Check Tire Pressure

Underinflated or overinflated tires can cause premature or irregular wear, poor handling and reduced fuel economy. To find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle, look on the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box door or inside the trunk lid. It also appears in the owner's manual.

The air in tires is measured in pounds per square inch, or psi. The simple act of regular tire pressure checks can help maximize tire performance and durability, save fuel and help reduce the risk of tire failure. Digital gauges make tire pressure checks easy, so never "eyeball" tires because they can look fine even when they're underinflated.

Even in vehicles equipped with tire pressure monitoring systems, Goodwrench recommends checking them at least once a month-including the spare-when the tires are cold (the vehicle hasn't been driven for three hours).

3. Check Tread Depth

The tread connects a tire to the road. When that tread is worn, the tire can't make optimum contact with the pavement. Worn or bald tires are especially dangerous in wet conditions.

Tire wear depends on several factors, including driving style and tire maintenance habits. Tire tread gauges are inexpensive and can be found at auto parts stores. One way to know when to replace your tires is when tread wear indicators appear. These "wear bars" look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread.

4. Don't Overload Your Vehicle

A vehicle tire placard also shows the maximum load of the vehicle. An overloaded vehicle puts excessive wear on tires as well as vital suspension components. Remember that load also includes baggage carriers and trailer weight.

For more tire care information or to locate your nearest Goodwrench technician, please visit www.goodwrench.com.

Stop Vehicle Problems Before They Stop You

Stop vehicle problems before they stop you. No one likes to be inconvienenced by car problems during a road trip or on your daily commute. Keep your vehicle on the maintenance schedule as recommended by the manufacturer.

(NAPSI)-Whether you're taking a road trip or just commuting to work, the likelihood of your vehicle leaving you stranded is greater than you think.

Each year, AAA rescues 29 million stranded motorists. In 2010, the motor club expects it will jump-start or replace nearly 5 million auto batteries with its AAA Mobile Battery Service, and estimates it will change more than 3.5 million flat tires. And while AAA's well-trained roadside technicians will be able to get three out of five motorists back on the go, more than 11 million drivers will have problems that require their vehicles to be towed-many of which could be avoided with proper maintenance.

Taking care of your vehicle now can cost far less than a major repair later on. AAA recommends two fundamental things you can do to find and fix problems before they happen.

1. Identify a quality repair shop and use that facility for all your vehicle repairs and maintenance so you develop a good working relationship with them and they get to know your car.

One way to find quality auto repair facilities that meet and maintain high professional standards for training, equipment, cleanliness and customer service is to look for the AAA Approved Auto Repair sign. You can also search online at www.AAA.com/Repair.

2. Have your car serviced regularly based on the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. While some maintenance and repair tasks are best left to certified automotive technicians, there are a few basics you can easily check yourself:

• Engine Air Filter

Check the air filter every six months or 7,500 miles by holding it up to a 100-watt lightbulb. If light can be seen through much of the filter, it's still clean enough to work.

• Battery

Check the battery cables to ensure they are securely attached to the terminals. Clean the terminals if there are any signs of corrosion.

• Tire Pressure

Check and adjust tire pressures at least once a month when the tires are cold- including the spare. The manufacturer's recommendations can be found in the owner's manual or on a sticker on the driver's doorjamb.

• Tire Tread

Check the tread depth by inserting a quarter upside down into a tire groove with Washington's head facing outward. The tread should cover part of Washington's head.

• Windshield Washer Fluid

Check the windshield washer fluid reservoir monthly and test the washer spray nozzles for proper operation and aim.

• Windshield Wiper Blades

Check the blades at every oil change or whenever they fail to wipe the glass clean in a single swipe. The rubber inserts usually last six to 12 months.