After switching out your winter tires, it’s easy to forget about them until the seasons change again. However, summer driving presents its own challenges. Hot pavement, long road trips, construction zones, and heavy vacation loads can all affect your tires. Taking a few minutes to inspect them can improve safety, extend tire life, and even help you save on fuel.
- Check Tire Pressure
Warm weather causes tire pressure to fluctuate, so check your tires when they’re cold and inflate them to the recommended pressure found on your driver’s door jamb. Proper tire pressure improves handling, reduces uneven wear, and helps maximize fuel efficiency. - Inspect Tread Depth
Summer rain can quickly create slippery road conditions. Tires with worn tread have less grip and are more likely to hydroplane. If your tread is getting close to the legal minimum of 2/32 inch (1.6 mm), it’s time to start shopping for replacements. - Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres helps them wear evenly and can significantly extend their lifespan. It also keeps your vehicle handling consistently throughout the driving season. - Remove Winter Tires
Once temperatures stay above 7°C, winter tires should be swapped for all-season or summer tires. Their softer rubber wears much faster in warm weather and can reduce braking performance while increasing fuel consumption. - Look for Damage
Potholes, gravel roads, and construction zones can cause cuts, bulges, punctures, or uneven wear. Give each tire a quick visual inspection before heading out on longer trips and have any damage checked by a professional. - Check Your Spare Tire
Don’t forget your spare. Make sure it’s properly inflated and that your jack and tire-changing tools are still in your vehicle—you’ll appreciate it if you ever need them.
Ready for Summer Adventures
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, making them one of the most important safety features on your car. A quick inspection before your next summer drive can help prevent unexpected problems, improve fuel economy, and give you greater confidence whether you’re commuting or exploring Canada’s highways.
