Tire safety is one of the most overlooked aspects of vehicle maintenance, especially in a fast-paced city like Los Angeles. Between the heat, traffic, and road conditions, your tires go through a lot while driving here, and neglecting them can put you at risk for accidents, blowouts, and expensive repairs. Whether you’re cruising the 405 or poking your way on back roads through Hollywood or Santa Monica, here are some essential tire safety tips to keep you safe and your car running smoothly:
1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Los Angeles weather may be mild compared to other parts of the country, but fluctuating temperatures—especially during Santa Ana winds or heat waves—can impact your tire pressure. Under-inflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and increase the risk of blowouts, while over-inflated tires can cause uneven wear. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long drive. You’ll find the correct PSI (pounds per square inch) on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in your vehicle’s manual.
2. Inspect Tread Depth
Worn-out tires are especially dangerous when roads are wet or oily, which can be a problem after LA’s rare but intense rainstorms. Use the penny test: insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires. Tread wear indicators—those small horizontal bars built into your tires—can also show you when it’s time to replace them.
3. Watch for Uneven Wear
If you find yourself driving over potholes and construction zones, these obstacles can throw off your alignment. If you notice uneven wear on your tires, your car may need a wheel alignment or suspension check. Ignoring this can lead to poor handling and faster tire deterioration.
4. Rotate Tires Regularly
To extend the life of your tires, it’s a good idea to rotate them every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This helps distribute wear more evenly and keeps your ride smooth, which is especially important if you’re frequently stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on LA freeways.
5. Avoid Overloading
Carrying extra weight—whether it’s for a weekend getaway or hauling gear—can stress your tires. Check your vehicle’s load capacity to ensure you’re not exceeding safe limits. Overloading can lead to overheating and, eventually, a dangerous tire blowout.
6. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Even if everything looks fine on the surface, a professional technician can catch issues you might miss. Stop by your local auto repair center in Los Angeles for a full tire inspection, including balancing, alignment, and rotation services.
Keeping your tires in top shape isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety, especially in a city as busy and unpredictable as ours. Take the time to check your tires, and you’ll not only improve performance and fuel economy but also reduce your chances of getting stuck on the side of the road during rush hour. Visit Eli’s Collision Repair for tire inspections or other auto body repair services.