Wondering when Should Tires Be Replaced?

With the snowy and icy conditions beginning to hit several parts of the country, drivers are starting to think about putting their winter tires back into service.  When should tires be replaced for winter?  If you live in a climate where the temperatures consistently remain below 45°F, you can go ahead and switch out your summer tires for ice tires, especially if the cold days include icy conditions.   

Be sure to have your tires checked and any compulsory tire repair taken care of before installing them and that the tread and inflation are sufficient for snowy conditions.  If your winter tires have reached approximately 4/32" of remaining tread depth, you should consider replacing them before winter arrives in full force!

Here are several safety tips to keep in mind when driving with winter tires:

• The RMA recommends installing winter tires in sets of four to optimize the performance benefits.  This will help maintain stability and control of your vehicle in severe snow conditions.
• Traction control or four-wheel drive on your vehicle often gives drivers a false sense of security in winter conditions. Traction control/ABS is designed for vehicle stability, power transmission, and controlled braking. It does NOT optimize traction or grip in winter driving maneuvers. 
• Look for the Severe Ice Conditions Symbol when shopping for winter tires.  It is located on the sidewall, indicating that the tire meets the snow traction standard recognized by the RMA.

After you have removed your summer tires, you will need to store them. Keep them in a cool, dry and preferably shaded or dark location. Store them raised up off the floor on a pallet or rack, sidewall to sidewall.

Remember:  Before re-installing winter tires on your vehicle, have them inspected for possible damage and adequate tread depth.  

Need tire repair on your winter tires?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive about when should tires be replaced for winter and make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served car owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.  

Wondering How Often Should You Do Car Maintenance?

Do you want to know how often should you do car maintenance and why?  Many vehicle owners don’t understand why following a schedule for vehicle maintenance is so vital.  As long as their car gets them from point A to point B, they think all is fine.    

Adhering to the preventative vehicle maintenance schedule makes sure your vehicle keeps operating smoothly and efficiently!  Always refer to your owner's manual or your auto mechanic for the specific service intervals required for your vehicle.  

So how often should you do car maintenance?  Here is a common guideline provided by vehicle manufacturers:

• Every 3,000--7,000 Miles.  Change the oil and filter according to your service manual.  At each oil change, have the transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid and wipers, tires and all exterior lights inspected.
• Every 15,000--30,000 Miles.  Replace the air filter every 15,000 miles. Every 20,000 miles check the battery and coolant. Replace the fuel filter every 25,000 miles. Every 30,000 miles, replace the power steering fluid and air filter. Check the coolant, radiator hoses, HVAC system, brake pads, and suspension components.
• Every 35,000--50,000 Miles.  Inspect the battery and replace it if it is not holding a charge or if it 3 to 4 years old. Every 40,000 miles replace the spark plugs and plug wires and check the ignition system and suspension.
• Every 60,000 Miles.  Replace brake pads and fluid, coolant, radiator hoses, power steering fluid, and timing belt. Check the HVAC, suspension components and tires.  Have the engine, transmission, cooling, brakes and suspension components thoroughly checked. 

Tip to Remember:  Keep a vehicle maintenance log.  Maintaining the maintenance schedule can optimize the resale value of your car, help prevent costly repairs, avert potential roadside breakdowns, and increase the driving safety of your vehicle. 

Need to how often should you do car maintenance?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive for more information about the suggested vehicle maintenance schedule and to make an appointment.  Since 1997, our auto repair shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.