Hot weather is hard on your car, especially your tires. Tracy’s Automotive can help you get through the coming heat wave.
As if this summer hasn’t been hot enough, forecasters are predicting that next week a “massive heat dome” will usher in another heat wave. The heat wave will cover most of the U.S with Wichita seeing temperatures in the triple digits by the end of the week.
That’s bad news for people who suffer in hot weather. It’s also bad news for your car.
“One of the casualties of blistering summers, are car tires. Given the intense summers … it is very important to ensure that the heat does not knock the wind out of your tires – quite literally, and cause your vehicle to lose control,” according to tire manufacturer Bridgestone.
Bridgestone explains, “The tires aren’t what support the weight of your car, it’s the air in the tires, and it’s usually kept at a temperature of around 32 pounds per square inch (PSI).
“It is the rule of thumb that for every 10°C change in ambient temperature, tire pressure increases by 0.1 bar, even when not driven. While this doesn’t sound like much, remember that there is only 30-35 PSI in the tires of passenger vehicles. A few extra bars of air pressure can make a big difference to a tire, and cause it to pop. Even in the event of that not happening, over-inflation can interfere with braking and cause premature wear and tear.”
Bridgestone offers these summertime tire care tips:
“Have your tires inflated to the recommended level – The proper amount of air pressure for safe driving varies depending on the car you drive. The vehicle manufacturer recommendation is the one to go for. It should be mentioned on the inside of the driver door and in the owner’s manual. …
“Keep a check on tire air pressure – Before you set out, measure the air pressure with a gauge. To be doubly safe, check it again every two hours or [about every 100 miles].
“Pull over until your tires cool down – Waiting it out until the tires cool off is the best thing to do in case of overheating. If you think that letting a little air out of the tires is a quick solution, you could be driving on tires that are under inflated, which is just as hazardous.
“Replace worn tires – Tires that are already worn thin are more likely to leak air. Consider getting ‘all-season tires’ or ‘summer tires’ that are designed to handle better in high temperatures.
“Clean and treat tires– To keep your tires from drying out, treat them with a wax-based product.
“Keep to the speed limit – The faster you go, the greater the friction, and consequently, the greater the heat. Which in turn increases the chances of a blowout.
“Be aware of the load weight – The more you load your vehicle, the greater the weight on the tires, increasing the likelihood of a blowout.”
If you need help with tire care, tire repair, or tire replacement, the place to go is Tracy’s Automotive.
Tracy’s Automotive is here to help you. If you don’t have time or feel you can take your car to the shop, Tracy’s Automotive will pick it up at your home or work. Then, after your car is serviced or repaired, Tracy’s Automotive will bring it back to you thoroughly cleaned.
Tracy’s passion for a better tire buying, auto care and auto repair experience drove us to develop the model of Tracy’s Automotive Tire Pros. Tracy’s has turned hard work and inspiration into a booming tire and auto repair provider. Now Tracy’s has three locations and serves customers all over Wichita and Goddard. Tracy’s is thrilled to be a part of your family’s trusted brands for all auto repair and tire needs.
Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.
