Summer driving can be a lot more demanding on your car than it might seem. The heat, long road trips, and even sun exposure can all take a toll, especially on your tires. Tires are your only point of contact with the road, so if there’s ever a time to make sure they’re in great shape, it’s during the summer months.
Blowouts, worn treads, and uneven tire wear not only disrupt your plans but also make driving less safe. Hot pavement heats up tires quickly, and if they’re not properly maintained, that added pressure can become a problem. A bit of care now can save you major headaches once those higher temperatures settle in. Here are some easy steps to help you keep your INFINITI’s tires in peak shape all summer.
Regular Tire Inspections
The first step to safer summer driving is keeping up with tire checks. Heat causes tire pressure to rise, which can result in overinflation. When that happens, tires tend to wear more quickly or burst in extreme cases. On the flip side, underinflated tires can sag under pressure, especially during long drives or stop-and-go traffic.
Things to check during your tire inspections:
- Tire Pressure: Use a pressure gauge once a week, ideally when the tires are cold. Make sure the pressure matches your INFINITI’s recommended PSI, which is on the driver’s side door sticker or in your owner’s manual.
- Tread Depth: Treads help your tires grip the road. In summer, shallow treads reduce control, especially when sudden rainstorms make the roads slick. If the treads look low, it’s time to get them checked.
- Cracks, Bulges, and Embedded Items: Heat causes rubber to expand, which can make weak spots worse. Look closely for nails, broken glass, or small cracks on the sidewalls.
- Tire Age: Tires don’t last forever. Even if they appear okay, rubber degrades with time. If you’re unsure how old your tires are, have a technician take a look.
If you don’t have a tread gauge, try the penny test. Put a penny into a groove with Lincoln’s head pointing down. If you can see all of his head, your tire tread might be too thin for safe driving. Simple and pretty effective.
Summer heat can shift tire conditions quickly. Whether you’re traveling far or just running errands, making tire inspections a weekend habit can prevent small issues from growing into safety risks.
Tire Rotation
Tires don’t wear evenly. Depending on how you drive and your car’s weight distribution, the front tires often wear faster than the rear. Regular tire rotation helps distribute wear more evenly so none of your tires wear out too early.
Some key points about rotating your tires:
- Rotate every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or as listed in your INFINITI’s manual.
- A typical rotation involves switching front tires to the back and vice versa. Some vehicles use cross-rotation patterns, depending on tire type.
- It’s best to let a professional handle it. Technicians can spot other issues while rotating, like worn brakes or suspension problems.
A smooth ride and longer tire life start with this simple habit. If your ride feels uneven or you notice pulling to one side, it might be time for a quick rotation.
Balancing and Alignment
Feeling vibration while driving or seeing uneven tire wear? That could signal a balancing or alignment issue. Balancing means making sure the tire and wheel weight is spread evenly. Misbalanced tires can cause shaking and wear out faster.
Alignment refers to adjusting the angles of your wheels to the correct specs. If your car pulls to one side or your steering wheel shakes, improper alignment could be to blame.
Here are a few benefits of keeping your wheels balanced and aligned:
- Improved Handling: A well-balanced and aligned vehicle gives you more control behind the wheel, especially important during summer road trips.
- Longer Tire Life: Proper alignment spreads wear evenly, so you don’t have to replace tires as often.
- Better Fuel Economy: Poor alignment increases resistance, which means your car uses more fuel to move forward.
Make a habit of checking this before summer trips, especially if you drive often. A technician can help spot these issues quickly before they affect other parts of your car.
Handling Extreme Temperatures
Your tires take a beating during the hottest stretch of the year. Road temperatures can climb well above air temperatures, and that kind of heat can soften tire tread and raise pressure.
To stay safe, keep these summer tips in mind:
- Monitor Road Heat: On scorching days, hot pavement can wear tires faster. When possible, limit long drives during peak heat or take breaks to allow your vehicle to cool down.
- Use Shade to Your Advantage: Park in shaded areas, garages, or use a sunshade to help minimize direct heat on your tires and keep them from expanding too much.
- Drive Smoothly: Aggressive driving wears out tires faster in the heat. Avoid sudden starts and stops. Treat the gas and brake gently to help your tires last longer.
Summer heat speeds up wear and tear, particularly on soft rubber. Being mindful of high temps each time you hit the road will help keep your tires in better shape.
Summertime Driving Tips with INFINITI City of Massapequa
Tackling summer maintenance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Bringing your car to a trusted dealership like INFINITI City of Massapequa for tire checks, rotations, and general upkeep can give you peace of mind when you head out on the road.
Regular service visits catch minor problems early. That means no unexpected stops on your summer getaway and smooth driving for those everyday errands. From balancing and alignment to fresh tire replacements if needed, everything can be handled in one visit.
If you’re looking to upgrade to something new, INFINITI City of Massapequa also offers a wide selection of INFINITI cars for sale. A comfortable, well-maintained vehicle can turn a regular trip into a relaxing summer drive.
Keep Your Tires in Top Shape This Summer
Tires need some extra care when the weather warms up. From checking pressure to balancing and rotation, these routine steps make a big difference in how your INFINITI handles on hot pavement. Stay ahead of problems with regular inspections and book appointments with experts when needed.
With help from INFINITI City of Massapequa, your summer drives can be worry-free and more enjoyable. Pay attention to the signs your tires send you, and prepare them for every mile ahead.
Ensure your car is ready for every summer adventure by taking care of its tires and overall maintenance. At INFINITI City of Massapequa, we’re here to help you find the perfect ride for those long sunny drives. Explore our selection of INFINITI cars for sale and see how a well-maintained vehicle can make all the difference. When you’re ready for your next service or to learn more about our offerings, reach out and let’s keep your journeys smooth and safe.
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