Schedule ServiceThe Importance of Having Properly Maintained Tires and Brakes
There are many elements that are integral to the performance of your vehicle, but it can be argued that tires and brakes are particularly important because they are on the forefront of the operation. In fact, having properly maintained tires and brakes will oversee that your vehicle not only performs well but safely, too. That is why we insist you schedule routine checkups at a Herb Chambers Service Center near you.
Maintaining Your Tires
Your tires are always in contact with the road and will naturally wear down over time, so it important to keep an eye on its condition. There are some characteristics to take into consideration.
How inflated your tires are is determined by its tire pressure. Discrepancies in outdoor temperature can cause tires to lose pressure, reducing its effectiveness on the road. In fact, a tire lacking pressure can increase stress and diminish control. In worst case scenarios, a blow-out may happen and trigger an accident. To avoid this costly expense, making sure your tires are properly inflated to the levels as described in your owner's manual is always a good idea.
Tire alignment is the position of the suspension which connects to the wheels. The right configuration will make sure your vehicle drives straight and that all four of your tires wear evenly. Driving through pot-holes and sustaining damages to the tire alignment will cause you to steer off-center and your tires to wear irregularly. Again, this can lead to the replacement of a tire earlier than intended or a potential accident.
How well your vehicle grips the road is linked to the tire tread, the patterns observable on the surface of your tires. Patterns differ depending on the tire type and exist to boost traction in varied conditions. No matter the design, however, the depth of the tread will fade as the rubber wears down. Thus, checking the tire tread regularly will inform you whether or not your tires are fit for travel.
Monitoring these traits will help you get the most from your tires. If you find that the tire pressure is low or leaking, your steering is skewed, or your tires are wearing out, then you may want to consider visiting a Herb Chambers service center for a tire replacement, tire alignment check, or tire rotation. Doing so can save you money and keep you safe.
Types of Tires
The most common variants are all-season tires, performance tires, all-terrain tires, and winter tires. As a rule, having the right tires for the situation will ensure your vehicle functions better. We suggest changing your tires as needed will pave the way for a better experience throughout the year.
All-Season Tires
As expressed by the name, all-season tires are made to handle a variety of road conditions. It is made with a rubber composition that remains flexible in moderately warm and cool weather. It has enough tread for stability through snow and water. However, in places that encounter temperatures below 45-degrees, winter tires make a better substitute.
Performance Tires
Sports cars usually lie low to the ground for precision handling and improved aerodynamics. Having performance tires will therefore bolster these characteristics. Designed with a low-profile and large tread surface, performance tires provide excellent traction on dry roads and can maintain great control at higher speeds and sharp turns. Bear in mind, the soft compound of the tires can cause them to wear out faster and will need to be replaced more frequently.
All-Terrain Tires
Some vehicles are made for occasional off-roading and will confront more than just the pavement. In such instances, having all-terrain tires will ensure you can tackle obstacles like rocky and sandy terrain with greater confidence because its tighter tread improves grip. Made of a soft rubber compound, its lifespan is approximately around 40,000 miles.
Winter Tires
Snow and ice create low-traction and can cause vehicles that are improperly prepared to slip. Thankfully, you can counteract these effects by switching to winter tires that are made of a soft rubber composite that is resistant to the cold. Where legal, some variations are even offered with studs to help break up ice. Using winter tires outside of the colder season is not recommended.
Maintaining Your Brakes
There is more to your vehicle than how well it moves forward. How well it stops is just as significant. Quality brakes will protect you because they will decrease the prospect of a collision. Like your tires, however, your brakes will deteriorate over long-term use, which is why you must check its condition. Parts to look out for include the brake pads, brake line, calipers, rotors, and master cylinder.
As a general standard, brake pads should be replaced every 12,000 miles and brake fluid should be replaced every 25,000 miles, but you should first refer to your owner's manual to determine the right interval for your model. Staying on top of these procedures will ensure damages do not extend to other brake components, saving you from getting expensive repairs. If you hear screeching or grinding when you press down on the brakes, this is a clear indicator to bring your vehicle in for service.
Schedule a Service Appointment at a Herb Chambers Service Center
At the end of the day, we want Herb Chambers customers to stay safe during their travels, which is why we cannot stress the importance of maintaining your brakes and tires enough. If you notice any of the issues mentioned above, then we suggest you follow-up with a visit to one of our Service Centers. Our technicians will diagnose the problem and help you solve it quickly and effectively. To learn more about the maintenance of your tires and brakes, you are welcome to contact us for answers to your questions.
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