Posted on 10/31/2025
Before any holiday road trip, tires should be at the top of your checklist. They’re your only connection to the road, and poor traction or low pressure can turn into a safety risk quickly. Begin by checking tread depth. If the tread is below 4/32", your tires may struggle to grip the road, especially in rainy or icy conditions. Use a penny or tread gauge to check, or ask your local shop to measure it during a quick inspection. Also, look at tire pressure. Cold weather causes air to contract, so a properly inflated tire last month might be underinflated today. Low tire pressure reduces fuel economy and increases tire wear. Be sure all four tires (and your spare, if equipped) are filled to the recommended PSI, which is printed on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Uneven wear, sidewall cracks, or bulges could signal the need for replacement. If your tires are older than six years, it may be time to replace them, even if the tread looks fine. Don’t Over ... read more