Prepare Your Tires for Cooler Weather: Fall Tire Maintenance Checklist

As fall approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle for cooler weather, and tire care is often overlooked. At Express Auto Repair, we prioritize your safety, starting with proper tire maintenance. Our fall tire maintenance checklist helps you avoid issues like under-inflated tires, uneven wear, and poor traction, ensuring your tires last longer and perform optimally.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Focus on Tire Maintenance

Fall is the ideal time to focus on tire maintenance as cooler temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, leading to uneven wear or even blowouts. Wet, slippery roads and seasonal debris like fallen leaves increase the need for proper tread depth and traction. By staying on top of tire care during the fall, you’ll improve safety, enhance fuel efficiency, and extend the life of your tires.

Your Fall Tire Maintenance Checklist

1. Check Your Tire Pressure

One of the simplest yet most important steps in tire maintenance is checking your tire pressure. As the weather cools, your tires lose pressure—roughly 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Driving on under-inflated tires reduces fuel efficiency, increases wear, and raises the risk of a blowout. What to Do:

• Use a tire pressure gauge to check your tires once a month.
• Adjust the pressure according to your vehicle’s recommended PSI (usually found in the manual or on the driver’s door frame).

2. Inspect Tire Tread Depth

Tread depth is essential for tire grip, especially on slick fall roads. Worn tires with low tread increase the risk of hydroplaning, making it harder to stop quickly in wet conditions. How to Check Tread Depth:

• Perform the “penny test”: Insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see his entire head, it’s time for new tires.
• Alternatively, stop by Express Auto Repair for a professional tread inspection.

Tire Care Tip: Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch or less. Regular inspections help prevent premature wear and keep you safe.

3. Rotate Your Tires

Rotating your tires regularly ensures even wear across all four tires. This helps to extend their lifespan, maintain balanced handling, and improve fuel efficiency. Fall is a great time to rotate tires, especially before winter driving conditions arrive. When to Rotate: Every 5,000 to 7,000 miles (or as specified in your owner’s manual). Benefits of Tire Rotation:

• Maximizes tire lifespan
• Improves vehicle performance
• Saves money on premature tire replacements

4. Check for Visible Damage

Fall debris such as rocks, branches, and even potholes can cause damage to your tires. Take time to inspect for cracks, punctures, or bulges that could worsen with colder weather. Signs to Look For:

• Cracks or cuts in the tire sidewall
• Bulges or blisters on the tire surface
• Embedded objects (like nails) that could cause slow leaks

5. Consider Seasonal Tires

Switching to all-season or winter tires can offer better traction and performance in Colorado Springs during the transition from fall to winter. Winter tires are designed to grip the road even in snow or icy conditions, making them a smart choice for fall preparation. When to Consider Seasonal Tires:

• Significant snow or icy roads
• Tires nearing the end of their lifespan
• Maximizing safety during fall and winter

Our experts at Express Auto Repair can recommend the best tires for your vehicle based on your driving habits and local conditions.

Additional Fall Tire Care Tips

Keep your tires in top shape this season with these extra tips:

• Wheel Alignment: Misalignment causes uneven wear. If your car pulls to one side, it’s time for an alignment.
• Tire Balancing: Unbalanced tires lead to vibrations and faster wear. Regular balancing ensures a smoother ride.
• Check Your Spare: Make sure your spare is properly inflated and ready for emergencies.

Dependable Tire Maintenance Starts with Express Auto Repair

We offer certified, top-quality tire care and vehicle services. Here’s why we stand out:

• Certified Experts: NAPA Gold, ASE Certified Blue Shop, and AAA-approved, ensuring premium care.
• Nationwide Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile warranty for peace of mind on every service.
• Convenient Services: Same-day repairs, online estimates, and Uber shuttle services.
• Highly Rated: Trusted by our customers for reliable and professional service.

Book Your Fall Tire Service in Colorado Springs Today

Get your tires ready for cooler weather by booking fall tire maintenance at Express Auto Repair. Visit us at 5360 Montebello Ln, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, or call (719) 358-9109. You can also visit our Galley location at 3655 Galley Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80909, or call (719) 630-8729. For easy scheduling, book an appointment through our website today!