When Was The Last Time You Checked Your Tires?

Tires Safety Check List from Bento's Tire Centre in Toronto

• Measure your tire pressure at least once a month, using a good-quality tire pressure gauge. Measure the pressure when the tires are cold. Don't forget the spare.

• Before inflating your tires, check the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. The information is usually on the tire information label - normally located on the edge of the driver's door, the door post, the glove box or the fuel door. This information can also be found in your owner's manual. Do not use the pressure indicated on the tire. It's the maximum pressure, not necessarily the recommended one.
• When inflating tires, make sure the air pump hose and tire valves are free of dirt and other obstructions. Make sure the tire valves have cups.
• Always measure tire pressure before going on a long trip.
• Once a month, inspect tires for uneven tread wear, cuts or cracks, bulges, foreigner objects or other signs of wear or trauma.
• Rotate your tires on a regular basis. Check your owner's manual to find out how - and how often - tires should be rotated.
• Buy the most appropriate tires for your vehicle and your driving needs.
• When installing new tires, always make sure tires of the same type, size, speed rating and load index are on all four wheels.
• Register your new tires with manufactures upon purchase.
• Don't overload your vehicle. The tire information label indicates the maximum recommended load.

Underinflation is the number one enemy of a tire. Operating an underinflated or overloaded tire at highway speeds on a warm summer day is a recipe for tire failure.

1) Be sure to measure the inflation pressure of your tires, including your spare, at least once a month. While doing so, take a moment to ensure that the tire is securely fastened to the vehicle.

2) Don't overload your vehicle.

3) Be sure to add air to your tires during the winter months. Make certain that both the air pump hose valve and the tire valve are free of snow and other debris that could cause a leak in the tire valve.
Don't forget to put the cup back on the tire valve when you're done.