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SEARCHTruly where the rubber meets the road, proper tire maintenance and safety checks can help ensure drivers get home at the end of the day.
Photos via istock.com
Photos via istock.com
To ensure proper tire safety on a passenger car, fleet managers and drivers should keep a few very important safety tips in mind:
Tip 1: Understand how to inspect a tire. Before getting on the road, drivers should inspect all four passenger car tires for any damage, including nails, as well as look for tread depth and inflation.
Tip 2: Know how to check tire pressure. Even though many of today’s vehicles are equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), driver’s still need to know how to check a tire’s pressure and where to find the OEM’s recommended tire pressure rating. Tires can lose one psi per month under normal conditions, and an additional 1 psi for every 10-degree F temperature drop.
Tip 3: Take the car in for regular tire maintenance. Taking a car in for periodic tire rotations, balancing, and alignment can help evenly spread wear and provide another check for damage.
Tip 4: Frequently check tire tread depth. A quick and easy way to check a tire’s tread depth is with a small tool made for the job, but a penny can also work to eyeball any concerns. If any part of Abe Lincoln’s head is covered by tire tread, you’re safe and good to go.
Tip 5: Understand how to read a tire’s sidewall. Finally, know how to read a tire’s sidewall. This skill allows a quick glance to know if the right tire is being used on a specific vehicle type.
Editor's note: This feature is part of a Special Fleet Safety Series Sponsored by Volvo Cars North America.
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