Common Myths about Tire Maintenance: Separating Fact from Fiction

When it comes to keeping your vehicle running smoothly, tires often don't get the attention they deserve. At Graves Auto Service in Cullman, AL, we understand that tires are your car's only point of contact with the road, making their maintenance crucial for safety and performance. Unfortunately, there are numerous myths surrounding tire care that can lead to improper maintenance and unexpected issues. Today, we're here to debunk some of these common myths and provide you with actionable advice to keep your tires—and your vehicle—in optimal condition.

Myth 1: You Only Need to Check Tire Pressure During Oil Changes

It's easy to overlook tire pressure, especially if your tires don't appear flat. Many people assume that checking tire pressure during routine oil changes is sufficient.

The Truth: Tire pressure fluctuates due to temperature changes and natural air loss over time. Relying solely on oil change intervals, which could be every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or even longer with synthetic oils, isn't enough.

Our Advice: We recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month. In Cullman, AL, where temperatures can vary significantly between seasons, monthly checks help ensure your tires are properly inflated. Proper inflation improves fuel efficiency, extends tire life, and enhances safety. Swing by Graves Auto Service, and we'll be happy to check your tire pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended levels.

Myth 2: New Tires Should Always Go on the Front

When replacing two tires, it's a common belief that the new ones should be installed on the front axle for better traction and handling.

The Truth: For optimal safety, new tires should be placed on the rear axle, regardless of whether your vehicle is front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive. New tires on the rear provide better stability, especially on wet roads, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and loss of control.

Our Advice: At Graves Auto Service, we prioritize your safety. When you purchase new tires, we'll install them on the rear axle unless all four are being replaced. This practice helps maintain better control during sudden stops or in adverse weather conditions common in Cullman, AL.

Myth 3: You Don't Need to Rotate Your Tires if You Don't Drive Much

If you use your car sparingly, you might think tire rotation isn't necessary.

The Truth: Tires wear unevenly due to factors like vehicle weight distribution and alignment settings. Even with low mileage, front tires often wear faster than rear ones.

Our Advice: Regular tire rotation promotes even wear across all tires, extending their lifespan. We recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as specified in your owner's manual. Even if you're not driving much, rotating them every six months is beneficial. Our team at Graves Auto Service can set up a rotation schedule that fits your driving habits.

Myth 4: All-Season Tires are Suitable for All Weather Conditions

The term "all-season" suggests that these tires are perfect year-round, regardless of weather.

The Truth: All-season tires are designed to perform adequately in various conditions but aren't specialized for extreme weather. They may not provide sufficient traction in heavy snow or optimal grip in high summer temperatures.

Our Advice: Consider the typical weather conditions in Cullman, AL. While we don't experience extreme winters, if you plan to travel to colder regions or desire enhanced performance, specialized tires might be appropriate. We can help you assess whether all-season, summer, or winter tires are best for your needs at Graves Auto Service.

Myth 5: Underinflated Tires Provide Better Traction

Some drivers believe that letting some air out of their tires increases the contact patch with the road, improving traction.

The Truth: Underinflated tires can lead to poor handling, increased tire wear, and higher fuel consumption. They also generate more heat, which can cause tire failure.

Our Advice: Always keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Properly inflated tires ensure optimal performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. If you're unsure about the correct pressure, check your owner's manual or the sticker inside the driver's door. We can also provide this information and adjust your tire pressure at Graves Auto Service.

Myth 6: The Tire Pressure Listed on the Tire Sidewall is the Optimal Pressure

It's common to look at the tire sidewall for pressure information.

The Truth: The number on the tire sidewall indicates the maximum pressure the tire can handle, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle.

Our Advice: Refer to the tire pressure guidelines provided by your vehicle manufacturer, typically found in the owner's manual or on a placard inside the driver's door. This pressure is calibrated for your specific vehicle to balance comfort, handling, and efficiency. We're happy to help you find and maintain the correct tire pressure at Graves Auto Service.

Myth 7: Tire Balancing and Alignment are the Same Thing

Balancing and alignment are often confused or thought to be interchangeable services.

The Truth: Tire balancing corrects the weight distribution within the tire and wheel assembly, preventing vibrations at high speeds. Alignment adjusts the angles of the wheels so they are set to the manufacturer's specifications, ensuring the vehicle drives straight and reduces tire wear.

Our Advice: Both services are essential but serve different purposes. If you experience vibrations while driving or notice uneven tire wear, it might be time for balancing or alignment. At Graves Auto Service, we offer both services and can diagnose any issues to keep your vehicle running smoothly on Cullman, AL roads.

Myth 8: The Penny Test is an Accurate Measure of Tread Depth

Using a penny to check tire tread depth is a longstanding DIY method.

The Truth: The penny test is a rudimentary way to check for the legal minimum tread depth (2/32 of an inch), but it doesn't account for reduced performance before reaching that point.

Our Advice: For a more accurate assessment, use a quarter instead. Insert it into the tread with Washington's head facing down. If the top of his head is visible, your tread depth is below 4/32 of an inch, and it's time to start shopping for new tires. Better yet, visit us at Graves Auto Service, and we'll measure your tread depth precisely and advise you on the best course of action.

Myth 9: Tires Last Until They Wear Out

Some believe that if the tread isn't worn down completely, the tires are still good to use.

The Truth: Tires degrade over time due to factors like temperature, storage conditions, and usage patterns. Even if the tread appears sufficient, the rubber compounds can age, leading to cracks and reduced performance.

Our Advice: Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six to ten years, regardless of tread wear. If you're unsure about your tires' age or condition, bring your vehicle to Graves Auto Service. We'll inspect them thoroughly to ensure they're safe for the roads in Cullman, AL.



Conclusion

Tire maintenance is more than just an occasional check—it's an ongoing commitment to safety and efficiency. By debunking these common myths, we hope to empower you with knowledge that enhances your driving experience.

At Graves Auto Service, we're dedicated to providing trustworthy advice and top-notch service to our community in Cullman, AL. Whether it's a tire inspection, rotation, or replacement, we're here to assist. Let's work together to keep your vehicle safe and performing at its best.