Understanding Tire Health Beyond Just Inflation

Protecting Your Vehicle's Foundation Understanding Tire Health: More Than Just Inflation

At Sullivan Tire, we've seen countless vehicles roll through our shop, and one thing remains consistent: your tires are the unsung heroes of your vehicle's performance and safety. Many drivers overlook tire maintenance, but it's a critical aspect of vehicle care that can save you money, improve safety, and enhance your driving experience.

The Basics of Tire Pressure

Proper tire inflation is more than a simple checklist item. Under-inflated tires can:

• Reduce fuel efficiency by up to 3%

• Increase tire wear

• Compromise vehicle handling

• Raise the risk of tire blowouts

Our technicians recommend checking tire pressure monthly and before long trips.The correct pressure isn't just a number on your vehicle's door jamb – it's a precise science that varies based on your vehicle's weight, driving conditions, and tire specifications.

Tire Rotation: The Balanced Approach

Uneven tire wear is a silent vehicle killer. At Sullivan Tire, we've developed a comprehensive rotation strategy that extends tire life and ensures optimal performance. Our rotation process considers:

• Vehicle drivetrain (front-wheel, rear-wheel, all-wheel)

• Tire type and size

• Wear patterns specific to your driving habits

Typically, we recommend tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles – coinciding perfectly with most oil change intervals.

Tread Depth: Your Safety Lifeline

Tire tread is your vehicle's primary defense against water, snow, and road conditions. Our technicians use professional-grade tools to measure tread depth, looking for:

• Uneven wear patterns

• Minimum tread depth (typically 2/32 of an inch)

• Signs of alignment or suspension issues

A simple penny test can help you check tread depth at home, but nothing beats a professional inspection.

The Sullivan Tire Promise We don't just check tires – we provide a comprehensive health assessment that keeps you safe on the road. From precision balancing to alignment checks, our team ensures your tires perform at their absolute best.