Tire Care and Safety

Practicing good driving habits can go a long way to improve your tire mileage and safety. Make sure that you observe posted speed limits; avoid fast starts, stops and turns; avoid potholes and objects on the road, and do not run over curbs or hit the tire against the curb when parking.

If you become stuck on ice, snow, mud or wet grass, do not attempt to free yourself by spinning your tires. The forces created by a rapidly spinning tire can cause an explosion by literally tearing the tire apart in as little as 3 to 5 seconds. Instead you should rock your vehicle gently back and forth by repeatedly shifting the gear lever from drive to reverse on automatic transmissions, or reverse to second on manual transmissions. If you are still not free from your predicament, call for a tow.

If you suffer a puncture and wind up with a flat on the freeway, slowly drive to the nearest safe area out of the path of traffic. Although this may damage the tire further, it is more important that you remain safe. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for jacking up the vehicle and replacing the wheel with a spare. You should then drive to a reputable repair facility for mending or replacement.

If you have hit a curb or pothole, it is necessary to have your tire inspected both inside and out for damage. An impact-damaged tire may appear serviceable on the outside, but can fail later after the road hazard injury.

You should check the inflation on your spare tire every time that you check all the others. If your spare is deflated, it will be of no help to you in an emergency. It is important to remember that improper mounting and over-inflation may damage the tire or wheel and can result in an explosion that could cause serious injury and death.

Do not depend on tire aerosol sealants and inflators to fix a damaged tire permanently. These products are designed to provide only a temporary, emergency repair to help get you off the road and to the nearest tire repair facility. Follow all directions and precautions printed on the canister when using these products. Be sure to inform tire service personnel that you have used a flammable aerosol to inflate your tire.