What are the signs of bad tires?

Bad tires can compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle. Here are some common signs that indicate your tires may need attention or replacement:

1. Low Tread Depth
• Sign: If the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) or less, it's time to replace the tires.
• How to Inspect: Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test (insert a penny with Lincoln’s head facing down—if you can see all of his head, the tread is too low).
2. Cracks or Bulges
• Sign: Visible cracks on the sidewalls or bulges on the surface are signs of structural damage.
• Cause: These can result from hitting potholes, curbs, or normal wear over time, increasing the risk of a blowout.
3. Vibration While Driving
• Sign: Excessive vibrations or shaking while driving, especially at higher speeds.
• Cause: It could be due to unbalanced or misaligned tires, worn-out treads, or internal tire damage.
4. Uneven Tire Wear
• Sign: Some areas of the tire wear down faster than others.
• Cause: This can be a result of improper alignment, over- or under-inflation, or suspension issues.
5. Tire Pressure Problems
• Sign: Constantly needing to inflate the tires or noticing that they frequently lose pressure.
• Cause: Leaks due to punctures, valve stem issues, or damage to the tire's structure.
6. Blisters or Bubbles on the Tire Surface
• Sign: A bubble-like bulge on the tire’s outer surface.
• Cause: This indicates a weak spot in the tire, usually caused by impact damage, and could lead to a blowout.
7. Excessive Tire Noise
• Sign: Worn tread reduces traction, making it harder for your car to grip the road, particularly in bad weather.
• Cause: This could be a result of worn-out treads or uneven wear patterns.
8. Worn-Out Indicator Bars
• Sign: Many modern tires have tread wear indicator bars. If the bars become visible, it means the tread has worn down significantly.
• Cause: These are designed to alert you when the tire needs replacing.
9. Longer Stopping Distances
• Sign: Your vehicle takes longer to stop, especially in wet conditions.
• Cause: Worn tread reduces traction, making it harder for your car to grip the road, particularly in bad weather.

Wondering what are the signs of bad tires? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at River Automotive for more information about tire repair and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.

How Many Miles Should You Get New Tires?

Purchasing a new set of tires for your vehicle is a big investment.  Thus, many drivers want to know about how many miles should you get new tires.  Most vehicle manufacturers state that the tires that come on their new vehicles will last around 50,000-60,000 miles.  Tire manufacturers also provide a mileage guideline for each of their tires so that vehicle owners will know what to expect out of their new tires.

Of course, there are some factors that will determine at about how many miles should you get new tires, such as:

• What kind of car you own and how you drive, 
• How you maintain your tires
• Quality of the tire
• All-purpose or all-season tire
• How the tire is mounted on the car. 
• Manufacturer’s stated length of tread life. 

Tire repair is quick, easy, and relatively cheap, and seemingly insignificant.  But tires that are in good condition are important for your driving safety.  Here are several maintenance tips to remember: 

• Inspect air pressure – A properly inflated tire will ensure optimal contact with the road, increase fuel economy, and help the tread wear more evenly. 
• Visual Checkup – Measure the amount of tread remaining, check tires for slashes, visible wires, or damage to the sidewall.
• Tire rotation – About every 6 months (or between 6,000 to 8,000 miles), rotate your tires around to a different position on the vehicle to make sure they wear in an even pattern.  
• Wheel Alignment – Wheel Alignment refers to an adjustment of the vehicle’s suspension so that the angles of the tires affect how they make contact with the road.  Misalignment wears out tires irregularly, decreasing the life of the tire and compromising the safety of your vehicle.
• Tire Balancing – Tire balancing will help achieve the smooth rolling of the tire. 

Tip for Drivers:  The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends that tires be replaced every 6 years regardless of the number of miles driven. 

Are you wondering how many miles should you get new tires?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about our tire repair services and to make an appointment.  Our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Sliding Down the Road? You May Need New Tires!

There are several reasons to check your tires before winter arrives in full force. You may need new tires for the harsher winter conditions. There are advantages and disadvantages of snow tires, especially because of the extra traction they provide. These tires are different from all-season wheels, composed of a high-quality rubber compound with studs for greater grip on the pavement.

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Snow tires have...

Better Grip

When roads are covered in snow or ice, snow treads are indisputably superior. They are specifically built for maximum grip. Deeper treads and hard studs combine to provide better traction. If you drive in harsh winter weather, snow treads are essential.

Superior Braking

When conditions are poor, braking is compromised by thin threads, and versatile all-season models can lock up and skid. New tires with winter treads dig into snow and ice to break quickly and safely.

Protect yourself and your family. Check air pressure often and if you need to get new tires do not put it off, especially in the winter months. Because air expands when heated and contracts when cooled, it is critical to check the air pressure in the fall and early winter months. As the temperatures drop, the pressure will also go down.

The rule of thumb for temperature change is that for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit, tire pressure changes by 2 percent. Inflation goes up with hotter temperatures and down with colder temperatures. In most of the U.S., the summer and winter temperatures vary by 50 degrees Fahrenheit. This results in a drop of 5 psi (pounds per square inch) in the dead of winter. This is enough to compromise the handling, traction and longevity of your tires. Check your pressure in the morning for most accurate readings.

Need a set of high-quality winter tires? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the kind of new tires needed for your vehicle. Rum River also offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Advice from an Auto Shop for Safe Winter Driving!

Don’t get stranded on a snowy or icy road, unable to travel to your holiday destination due to poor tires.  Check out your tires before heading down the road to make sure you are driving as safely as possible.  Many drivers ask, "Do I need winter tires or are my all season tires sufficient?"  To understand which tires would best suit your winter driving, you must understand the differences in winter tires vs. all season tires.

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• All Season Tires

Many vehicles are fitted with all season tires when they leave the factory. They are built to provide a relatively quiet ride, good tread life and fuel economy.  They provide versatile performance and are designed to perform in a variety of conditions including wet roads and light winter driving. Even though all season tires are designed to provide good performance in many conditions, they tend to compromise between the summer and winter performance capabilities. All season tires won't provide the same amount of extreme grip and sharp handling of a summer tire, and they are not designed to handle extreme winter conditions like trekking through snow or driving on ice.  All season tires are a great option for drivers who live in moderate climates and do not encounter extreme cold, ice and snow in the winter months.

• Winter & Snow Tires

From heavy snowfall to black ice, winter roads are unpredictable. The combination of cold temperatures, ice, and snow can be best met by winter tires, specially designed to perform in winter conditions.  There are specific features that make winter tires unique:

• Tread rubber – The rubber compound remains more flexible in cold temperatures so that the tire grips the road better.
• Tread depth and patterns – The deeper tread reduces snow buildup and provides better traction, and the unique tread patterns are designed to channel snow and slush, and expel water.
• Biting edges -- Winter tires feature biting edges and high sipe densities (thousands of tiny slits in the tread that provide traction on ice).

Having the right tire matters!  The solution to the winter tires vs. all season tires question will depend on where you live and the conditions in which you drive.  If you only see a few snow flurries each year, all season tires will be fine. But if icy roads are a constant issue, winter tires are an essential safety measure that could save your life.

Need a set of high-quality winter tires?  Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about purchasing new tires.  Rum River also offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services.  Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman,MN.  

When Should I Get New Tires?

It’s inevitable that all tires, over time, get old and worn out. It can be puzzling in trying to determine when it’s time to purchase new tires. Many drivers want to wait as long as possible before putting out the expense.

Other than a tire specialist’s opinion, there are several visual signs indicating that new tires are necessary.

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Five Visual Symptoms to watch for:

1. Tire tread depth less than 1/16th of an inch – If you regularly drive on wet or slick pavement, more than this is better and safer. If there is less than 1/16th of an inch depth remaining, take your car into a tire service center and ask about purchasing new tires.
2. Newer tires have tread wear indicator bars. These bars gradually begin to appear as the tread wears down. They appear as flat rubber bars running perpendicular to the direction of the tread itself. If more than one or two of these are visible, the tread is getting low and it’s time to have your tires checked.
3. Tracks or cuts in the sidewall - Do a visual check of the sidewalls or your tires looking for grooves or cracks. This could be a sign that your tire is developing an air leak (or worse, ready to blow out). If the cracks in the sidewall are starting to look serious, have them checked. You may need new tires.
4. Bulge or blister on the outer surface of the tire – If you see these, it means the tire is beginning to weaken. This weak spot can cause a sudden blow out, and cause you to lose control of the car. So keep a close watch on any tire bulges and blisters that are apparent.
5. Extensive vibration while driving - There can be any of a number of causes for the vibration, but it could indicate an internal problem in a tire. Even if the tire isn't the root cause of the vibration, the vibration could damage the tire and wear it prematurely. If this is the case, have your tires checked.

Be sure to take care of your tires before something goes wrong! A tire failure while you're driving can be catastrophic-- causing your car to go out of control or leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.

Need a set of high-quality tires for safe summer driving? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Rum River offers quality auto repair and detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Automotive Repair Get Ready for Summer!

Spring is here and the temperatures will start to rise as we get closer to summer. Now is a good time to get your car ready for summer's hot temperatures. Be sure to have the appropriate automotive service performed at the recommended interval. It will not only potentially save you $$$ in automotive repair expense, it can literally be a lifesaver in hot conditions.

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5 Automotive Service Tips:

• Regular Oil Changes -- Regularly change the oil and filter, as well check the other fluids and filters (coolant, brake and transmission) and refresh at the recommended intervals. Don't skimp on using high-quality filters.
• Inspect the Brakes – Have an inspection of the braking system before heading out on a long road trip. Check the condition of the brake rotors, pads, and calipers to determine if a brake repair is necessary. Are the pads warped or cracked with deep grooves? Are the pads worn close to their minimum clearance?
• Working Lights -- Make sure all your lights are working properly. New bulbs cost only a few dollars and are fairly easy to install. If you can't do it yourself, don't delay in scheduling an automotive service for safety.
• Clean the Windshield – Be ready for those sudden summer thunder storms with good windshield wipers and a full washer fluid reservoir. If necessary, replace a cracked windshield so the safety of your passenger cabin is not compromised.
• Check the Tires -- Have your tires rotated, inspected and filled with the correct air pressure before heading out on a long road trip. If your tires are worn, it is wise to replace them. Remember to make sure the spare is in good condition so you're not stranded with a flat tire on a hot summer day.

Why spend money on quality automotive service? It will. . .

• enhance the safety of you and your passengers
• enhance the safety of other motorists
• increase gas mileage will increase
• ensure a smoother running vehicle
• ensure your vehicle will come to a stop quickly.

Need the help of automotive repair experts? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for information about our automotive service. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

3 Common Failures leading to Engine Repair.

The basic purpose of the engine is to convert air and fuel into rotary motion to turn the wheels of your car. It is the heart of the car, pumping air and fuel through its system. If the air and fuel is blocked, it can't be converted into motion, resulting in an urgent engine repair. Wise vehicle owners know that regular engine service by a professional auto mechanic will help prevent a major engine repair down the road.

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There are three main engine components that are prone to failure:

• Valve train: The valve train consists of valves, rocker arms, pushrods, lifters, and camshaft. Its job is to let air and fuel in and out of the engine at the proper time. The timing is controlled by the camshaft, which is synchronized to the crankshaft by a chain or belt. What wears out? If your car emits grayish/white smoke only when you start it, leaking valve seals may be the culprit. Oil can seep into the combustion chamber, collect there until you start your car, and then burn away.
• Pistons: Most motors have 4, 6, or 8 pistons which move up and down in the cylinders. The pistons have rings that keep the oil free of fuel and air and prevent it from entering the combustion chamber. What wears out? The rings wear out, allowing fuel and air to dilute the oil, reducing its ability to lubricate. Worn out rings also allows oil from the crankcase to enter the combustion chambers, where it burns and emits a grayish/white smoke from the tailpipe.
• Crankshaft: The crankshaft rides on bearings, supporting the crankshaft and rods, and connecting the pistons to the crankshaft. As the pistons move up and down, the crankshaft rotates and converts the straight line motion into rotary motion. What wears out? As these bearings wear down over time, you may start to hear a loud knocking noise. This may result in a costly engine repair as the crankshaft has to be removed to machine the surface where the bearings ride, or it may mean replacing the entire crankshaft.

Looking for quality engine service? We will be glad to help you, whether it's for a minor engine repair, or a complete engine rebuild. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information about engine service, other repairs and maintenance, and vehicle detailing. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Need New Tires for Safe Winter Driving?

Don't be stranded out in the cold with an unexpected break down. Take a few extra minutes of your time and make sure your winter driving is as safe as it can be. Before you head out for that skiing trip, or even for your daily commute, take time to get a standard inspection service to make sure that your vehicle is up for the task of the cold weather and miles still to come. This inspection should include checking all fluids (transmission, brakes, battery, power steering, radiator), a needed oil change, inspection of your tires (purchasing new tires or snow tires may be necessary if you're headed to the slopes), braking system, and steering and suspension systems. Don't forget to check the spare too!

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Be sure to take of your tires before something goes wrong! A tire failure while you're driving can be catastrophic--causing your car to go out of control or leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere. Here are a few things you can check yourself:

• Depth of Tread -- The tread on your tires should be at least 1/16 of an inch (1.6 millimeters) in depth. Don't let it get any thinner than that, and twice that much is better if you regularly drive on slick, wet surfaces.
• Cracked Sidewalls – This could be a sign that your tire is developing a leak.
• Bulges and Blisters – This is an indication that the outer surface of the tire has begun to weaken.
• Excessive Vibration – This can be caused for several reasons; tires out of alignment or out of balance, failing shock absorbers, or a problem in internal structure of the tire.

As much as you try to be prepared and your vehicle has received a clean bill of health, the unexpected can happen, such as engine problems, flat tires, accidents, road closures, and other issues. Make sure you carry a roadside emergency kit in the trunk. These are readily available at most retailers and auto part stores. Don't forget to add a couple of blankets, snacks, and water.

Need a set of high-quality tires for safe winter driving? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com for more information. Rum River offers quality auto repair and auto detailing services. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Quality Car Service: Be Sure Your Teen is Safe behind the Wheel!

School is starting, which means that many teenagers will be getting behind the wheel to get back and forth to school and other activities. Parents have spent years protecting their children from all sorts of dangers on the road and off. They now face the fact that their teens are starting to drive on their own. One of the first steps of preparation is to make sure that all recommended car service and any needed car repair has been performed on the vehicle your teen will be driving. Teenagers generally are not experienced enough to recognize the signs indicating a pending car repair issue.

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Spell out the Rules – Surveys show that teens whose parents impose driving restrictions typically engage in less risky driving and are involved in fewer crashes. Don't just hand over the keys with no rules. Your teen should agree to the five basic rules below before getting behind the wheel:

#1: No Cell Phones - Talking on a cell phone while driving reduces reaction time, no matter how experienced you are as a driver. Texting is among the worst of all distractions, as it involves manual, visual, and cognitive actions.

#2: No Extra Passengers -- In a study analyzed by NHTSA, teen drivers were two-and-a-half times more likely to engage in one or more potentially risky behaviors when driving with a teenage peer compared to when driving alone. Research shows that the risk of a fatal crash goes up in direct relation to the number of teenagers in the car.

#3: No Speeding -- Speeding is a major factor contributing to teen drivers involved in fatal crashes. Talk to your teen about the dangers of speeding and staying in control of the vehicle. Remind them to always follow the posted limit and of the potential consequences.

#4: No Alcohol – Young drivers 15 to 20 years old are at far greater risk of death in crashes involving alcohol than adults, even though they cannot legally purchase or possess it. If lucky enough to survive a crash, the teen will have to face the consequences of breaking the law. That could include a trip to jail, loss of a driver's license, and dozens of other expenses including attorney fees, court costs, other fines, and insurance consequences. The teen will also stand to lose academic eligibility, college acceptance, and scholarship awards.

#5: Always buckle up -- Remind your teenagers that whether they are driving across town or just around the neighborhood, wearing seat belts is the absolute best way to protect themselves and their passengers. Seat belts help drivers maintain control of the vehicle in emergency situations.

Remember: As a parent, you are the #1 influence molding your young adult into a safe and capable driver. Talking is important, but action is even better. Start by modeling good habits, such as turning off your cell phone and buckling up, any time you drive them anywhere, even before they begin to drive.

To help ensure the safety of your teen's vehicle, make sure all recommended car repair has been taken care of properly. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information about car service schedules. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

3 Easy Tire ServiceTips!

For many vehicle owners, today's economy makes budgets tight. As a result, the tires on your current vehicle many need to last a few miles longer than you had hoped. A monthly tire service is smart to help prevent a costly tire repair, or possibly even more extensive damage from occurring to your wheels or other components of your car.

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Tires are one of the most overlooked of all a vehicle's components.  Vehicle owners should consider quality tire service the same as making an investment in your vehicle.

3 Tire Service Tips:

Check air pressure. Take care of under-inflated tires immediately. The resistance caused by under-inflation generates heat through friction. This heat can cause damage to your tires and other vehicle components, such as the braking system. So that you won't be stranded with a flat, remember to check the spare at the same time.

Check the depth of the tread. This will ensure good traction, especially in icy or snowy conditions. Place the edge of a penny down in the grooves. If you can see most of Lincoln's head, it's time for a tire replacement. Your car may be out of alignment if the inside groove and the outside edge are wearing unevenly. If the steering wheel vibrates while driving, your tire may need its balance weight restored, or you may need a wheel alignment. This will improve the overall ride and handling of your vehicle.

Rotate. A rotation should be done about every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. This is so that all four tires will wear evenly. If there are signs of excessive wear and tear, you may need to have all four replaced. At the very least, replace either the two front or the two back ones at the same time, whichever ones are the worse for wear.

If you follow these three tips, you can help prevent expensive tire repair, extend the life of your tires and vehicle, and guard the safety of you and your passengers.

So that you feel confident for that long commute to work in icy and snow conditions, make sure to have regular tire service. Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Auto Shop Offers Vehicle Maintenance Tips!

If your car or truck isn't ready for winter driving, it's time to take it to an auto shop to make sure it is "up-to-date" on all of its maintenance services. Even a new vehicle requires regular service, such as oil changes, wheel alignment, or brake service. You can gain peace of mind for just a little extra time and money spent at an auto center, knowing that your car will get you safely and comfortably to your destination on time.

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Preventative vehicle maintenance typically includes the following services at the recommended intervals:

    * at every 3,000 miles -- Change oil and filter.

    * at every 15,000 miles -- Change air filter (7,500 miles in dusty or dirty operating conditions).

    * at every 20,000 miles -- Check timing belt for wear.

    * at every 30,000 miles -- Change spark plugs and wires, change distributor cap and rotor, adjust valves, check and adjust idle speed and ignition timing (as necessary), change PCV valve and crankcase ventilation filter (as applicable), check onboard diagnostic system (trouble codes).

    * at every 60,000 miles: Replace timing belt, or as recommended in owner's manual.

You are extending the life of your vehicle when you have it serviced at the appropriate intervals. Just like going to the dentist on a regular basis, you won't need to dread a trip to an auto shop. It's true that it will cost you a few dollars in the beginning, plus some of your valuable time, but it's an investment that will pay dividends in the long run. Once you have found a reliable auto center that you can trust, give them your repeated business. They will keep a history log of your vehicle's maintenance service, resulting in fewer unexpected breakdowns.

Looking for a quality auto shop? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ to answer your questions about our tire service. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Advice From A Tire Service Center About All-Season vs. Winter Tires

In order to stay up with your job, school, and other activities during the harsh winter months, you may be wondering whether you should purchase winter tires, otherwise known as snow tires, or just stick with all-season tires. For most severe winter weather conditions snow tires will help provide with enhanced traction. For help with purchasing the right type of tire for your specific vehicle and climate, ask your local tire service center to guide you through the process. 

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So that vehicle owners can make informed decisions about whether or not to purchase all-season or winter tires, consider the following tips offered by a tire service center:


Tread Compound & Design: Winter tires feature specialized tread compounds and advanced tread designs that help provide superior traction and shorter stopping distance, together with improved braking performance.
Road Conditions: You may have hills and sharp corners to navigate in addition to the harsh winter weather. In addition to inclement weather, you may have hills and sharp corners in your area, as well as unplowed snow, slush or ice. For advanced traction and control, winter tires can help you face those challenges.

Weather Conditions: If the winter temperature is consistently below 45°F or you're forced to drive in challenging winter conditions (snow, slush, ice, unplowed roads), winter tires may be a good choice for you. All-season tires do provide extra traction for wet and snowy conditions, but the enhanced traction and grip that winter tires provide assures that your winter driving is safer and more comfortable.


Performance: The amount and type of traction on your tires impacts your vehicle's starting, stopping and turning abilities on snowy or icy road surfaces.

For expert advice from a professional tire service center, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ to answer your questions about our tire service. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Tire Repair: Is the Air Pressure in Tires Important?

Automobile manufacturers are required to list the original air pressure of tires in the owner’s manual for your vehicle. If the inflated pressure has consistently varied from the manufacturer’s recommendation, it's likely that the wear and tear on your tires has been accelerated and you will need a tire repair sooner than expected! Your trusted auto mechanic can help you determine the remaining life expectancy of your tires.

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There are usually three major problems leading to tire repair:

• Under-inflation -- If your tires are under-inflated by only 6 psi it could lead to tire failure. Additionally, their tread life could be reduced by as much as 25%. Lower inflation pressure will allow the tire to deflect (bend) more as it rolls. This will build up internal heat, increase rolling resistance, and cause a reduction in fuel economy of up to 5%. You will also find a significant loss of steering precision and cornering stability.
  

• Over-inflation -- If your tires are over-inflated by 6 psi, they can be easily damaged when running over pot holes or debris in the road. Higher inflation pressure cannot isolate road irregularities very well, causing the ride to feel stiff and harsh. However, higher inflation pressures usually provide improvement in steering response and cornering stability, but only up to a point. Avoid intentional over-inflation.

• Time and Temperature -- Inflation pressures change due to time and temperature. Tires lose about 1 psi per month due to air escaping through the rubber as it stretches. Inflation pressures also fluctuate with changes in the outside air temperature at a rate of about 1 psi for every 10°F (plus or minus). So the inflation pressure you set correctly with an 80°F ambient temperature will be under inflated by 6 psi at 20°F. Improper inflation can cause irregular wear and void the manufacturer's warranty.

If the inflation pressure is repeatedly either higher or lower than recommended, you could be headed for a costly tire repair. Check the air pressure about once a week, preferably before the vehicle has been driven. Spending about two minutes a week will achieve the optimum performance from your tires and can prevent you being stranded on the side of the road.

Need quality tire repair? Our qualified auto mechanics can help you keep your car on the road. Contact our ASE-Certified Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

 

Tires Princeton MN: 3 Tips to Prevent Unexpected Tire Repair Problems

Taking good care of your tires is truly an investment in your vehicle. However, they are one of the most overlooked of all of a vehicle’s components. Checking for any potential problems on a monthly basis (especially if you have a long commute to work or school) is the best way to prevent costly tire repair or even more expensive damage from occurring to your car. Most importantly, you are maintaining the safety of you and your passengers.

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3 tips to prevent unexpected Tire Repair:

• Check air pressure and take care of any under-inflated tires immediately. The resistance of an under-inflated tire will cause heat, causing damage which could result in a tire repair or replacement, not to mention increased fuel consumption. Don’t forget to check the spare. Inspecting and filling your spare at the same time is good practice so that you will not be left stranded by the side of the road with a flat.
• Check the tread depth. Place the edge of a penny upside down in the grooves. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a replacement. Is the inside groove and the outside edge wearing evenly? If not, this may be a sign that your car is out of alignment. Do you feel your steering wheel vibrating? Your tire may have lost its balance weight. Having the necessary wheel alignment or wheel balancing will help maintain the overall ride, comfort, and handling of your vehicle.
• Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,000 miles so that all four will wear at the same rate. If there are signs of excessive wear and tear, don’t just replace one--have all four replaced. If that isn’t possible, purchase the two front ones, or the two back ones, at the same time. Consider the climate where you live and the use of your vehicle when determining the best type to purchase.

For expert advice on care for your tires, tire repair, or for any other vehicle maintenance issues, contact our ASE Certified Tire Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto shop Princeton, MN has served customers in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca MN and Zimmerman MN, Minnesota area.

Tires: Incorrect or Correct Tire Repair?

One of the most distressing sights you may see when you are getting into your car could be flat tires. Not only do you have to change the flat before you can drive off, you will need a tire repair. To minimize potential deterioration started by the puncture, it’s a good idea to have it repaired immediately.

Most punctures are caused by small nails and screws less than ¼” in diameter. Generally, the manufacturer’s guidelines allow tire repair of punctures in tread in an area up to ¼” in diameter. However, in the case of larger tread punctures or punctures to the tire’s shoulder and sidewall areas, a replacement is strongly recommended.

Consider these 3 things when having punctures repaired:

• Evaluate the size and scope -- Any tire repair attempted without removing it from the wheel is not correct. Punctures may look repairable from the outside, but when inspected from the inside, damage also may be found inside. Without taking if off, the damage would have been missed.

• Re-establish an airtight seal of the tire’s innerliner – Typically, a mushroom-shaped patch and plug combination will reseal the innerliner effectively on a punctured steel belted radial.

• Completely fill the path the object took through the tire -- A tire repair is complete only if it fills the path the object took. If the innerliner has been punctured, it must be cleaned, buffed, cemented, patched and coated to restore its ability to retain air. This can only be done from inside.

How do you know which procedures a mechanic uses? Ask them! A correct tire repair that follows the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association’s multi-step procedures will usually take about 30 minutes.

As a word of caution, driving on a damaged tire will cause further damage and deteriorate its strength over time. More importantly to consider, when driving at high speeds on an improperly repaired tire, it may suddenly fail, and cause loss of control of your vehicle.

For expert advice on tire repair, contact our ASE Certified Tire Technicians today by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://www.rumriverauto.com/ for more information. Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served customers in auto shop Princeton MN, and in the surrounding areas of auto repair Milaca and auto repair Zimmerman, Minnesota.

If you are looking for a quality tires Princeton MN than Rum River auto repairs Princeton MN shop can be best choice for you. Also find vehicle maintenance Princeton MN service.