Proper Tire Care Helps Keep Your Vehicle Rolling
(MF) - Experts say poor maintenance of a vehicle's tires is a risk no motorist can afford. GM Goodwrench is reminding drivers of the importance of maintaining their tires to help avoid uneven wear, poor performance - or even blowouts, which may result in loss of control of the vehicle.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates tire failures or blowouts contribute to more than 400 deaths and 10,000 injuries in the U.S. each year. Yet, statistics show that some drivers don't follow the basic tire maintenance guidelines that can help prevent tire failures. According to the Car Care Council, 26 percent of the vehicles inspected at checkpoints during Car Care Month 2004 had low air pressure in one or more tires.
"Although today's tires are more technologically advanced than ever before, regular visual inspections and maintenance are critical to enabling tires to perform at their best," said Doug Herberger, GM North America vice president and general manager of service and parts operations.
Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Underinflation or overloading creates excessive stresses and heat, and can lead to tire failure and a crash.
Changes in outdoor temperature can affect the rate at which a tire loses air. Typically, a tire loses one to two pounds of pressure per month, and even more in warm weather.
To help avoid underinflation, the Rubber Manufacturers Association recommends checking the air pressure in your tires at least once a month and before every long trip. Tires must be checked when they are cold - that is, before they have run for one mile. Experts also say you should never "bleed" or reduce air pressure when tires are hot - it's normal for pressure to build up as a result of driving.
If your tire sustains a blowout while you are driving, don't slam on your brakes - that can cause your car to swerve in the direction of the blowout. Instead, gently apply the brakes to regain control and slowly guide the vehicle to a safe area away from the road.
Drivers can help prevent potential tire failures with expert advice and service from their dealership. GM Goodwrench encourages consumers to visit their local dealership for an inspection to ensure that their vehicle is up-to-date on its maintenance needs. The inspections can point out items needing service to help a vehicle run better, last longer, retain its value and provide optimal safety and security.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates tire failures or blowouts contribute to more than 400 deaths and 10,000 injuries in the U.S. each year. Yet, statistics show that some drivers don't follow the basic tire maintenance guidelines that can help prevent tire failures. According to the Car Care Council, 26 percent of the vehicles inspected at checkpoints during Car Care Month 2004 had low air pressure in one or more tires.
"Although today's tires are more technologically advanced than ever before, regular visual inspections and maintenance are critical to enabling tires to perform at their best," said Doug Herberger, GM North America vice president and general manager of service and parts operations.
Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure, according to the Rubber Manufacturers Association. Underinflation or overloading creates excessive stresses and heat, and can lead to tire failure and a crash.
Changes in outdoor temperature can affect the rate at which a tire loses air. Typically, a tire loses one to two pounds of pressure per month, and even more in warm weather.
To help avoid underinflation, the Rubber Manufacturers Association recommends checking the air pressure in your tires at least once a month and before every long trip. Tires must be checked when they are cold - that is, before they have run for one mile. Experts also say you should never "bleed" or reduce air pressure when tires are hot - it's normal for pressure to build up as a result of driving.
If your tire sustains a blowout while you are driving, don't slam on your brakes - that can cause your car to swerve in the direction of the blowout. Instead, gently apply the brakes to regain control and slowly guide the vehicle to a safe area away from the road.
Drivers can help prevent potential tire failures with expert advice and service from their dealership. GM Goodwrench encourages consumers to visit their local dealership for an inspection to ensure that their vehicle is up-to-date on its maintenance needs. The inspections can point out items needing service to help a vehicle run better, last longer, retain its value and provide optimal safety and security.
posted by US Military News at 10/08/2005
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