Regular tire maintenance, including cleaning, proper inflation, and protection from harsh elements, is essential for vehicle safety and performance. Adopting these practices can significantly extend tire lifespan and reduce the risk of tire failure, contributing to safer driving conditions.
Proper tire maintenance is crucial to vehicle performance and safety, as tires bear the brunt of vehicle wear and tear. An EU-sponsored study on safety-related aspects of tire use found that about 30% of vehicles with summer tires have at least one tire that shows signs of aging or other irregularities that increase the risk of tire failure.
When dirt, grime, and other harmful substances accumulate on tires, deterioration can accelerate rapidly. Regular car washes can help mitigate these effects, improving the longevity of rubber tires and metal rims and ensuring optimal vehicle performance and safety.
Mitigating tire wear and tear through regular washing
Tires are among the most strained parts of a car and need to be in good condition for safety reasons. They should be replaced if there are signs of damage like cuts, punctures, cracks, bulges, or other deterioration forms that could compromise their integrity. Specific weather conditions, such as road salt in winter and UV rays in summer, impact the lifespan of tires.
“Car owners should regularly inspect their tires for signs of wear and tear,” says Edgaras Stanevičius, Head of Innovations at PRO BRO, the fastest-growing international franchise network of express tunnel car washes in Europe. “This includes checking tread depth, uneven wear, cracks, bulges, and removing any foreign objects. Paying attention to unusual vibrations or noises while driving is also crucial as these can indicate tire damage or imbalance.”
Frequent and proper cleaning of the car can help prolong the lifespan of the tires’ materials. By removing harmful substances and allowing for early detection of potential issues, car owners can keep their tires in the best condition possible.
Strategies for cleaning and protecting tires
UV rays can damage rubber tires, causing them to degrade faster. There are several steps car owners can take to minimize UV impact. “Parking in shaded areas, using a car cover, applying a UV-resistant tire dressing, and keeping tires clean can significantly reduce UV damage to tires,” says Edgaras Stanevičius. Storing cars in a garage during peak sunlight hours can further protect against harmful UV exposure.
Regular tire cleaning is essential to preventing damage from substances like road salt and dirt. “Tires should be cleaned at least once a month, or even more frequently during certain conditions,” stated Stanevičius. “During winter months, for example, cleaning should be increased to remove road salt, which can cause corrosion. After long road trips or driving on dirt roads, it is crucial to clean tires to remove accumulated mud, debris, and dirt, which can accelerate damage.”
Using automated car washes with a modern, soft cloth or touchless systems can efficiently and thoroughly clean tires while minimizing the risk of surface damage compared to harsher, older systems. Hand washing, while time-consuming, can also be effective if proper techniques and materials are used.
Best practices and additional measures for tire longevity
Proper tire cleaning involves several steps to ensure they remain in good condition. “Start with a pre-rinse to remove loose dirt and debris, apply a tire-specific cleaner, and scrub gently with a soft-bristled brush,” Stanevičius recommends. “After washing, be sure to rinse and dry completely, and consider using a UV-protectant tire conditioner. These steps will help maintain both the appearance and the integrity of the tires while also protecting them from UV damage.”
Apart from regular cleaning, there are measures car owners can take to extend tire lifespan. “Proper inflation, rotation every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, alignment, and balancing are crucial to avoiding uneven wear and improving fuel efficiency,” explainsStanevičius.
The use of seasonal tires can also contribute significantly to tire longevity. The EU-commissioned study on tire safety found that only 10% of winter tires showed signs of excessive wear, compared to 30% of summer tires, suggesting that people who use winter tires are more attentive to tire maintenance.
Storing tires correctly when not in use, such as in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, further ensures their durability. Implementing these strategies can significantly enhance tire performance and longevity, thereby maintaining overall vehicle safety and performance for a longer period.
