Your Guide for Nissan Tire Maintenance

The tires on your vehicle should never be neglected, as it is the only component of your car that makes constant contact with the road. Keeping your tires in good condition is essential for optimal fuel efficiency and safe driving. Regular tire maintenance and rotations not only prolong the life of your tires, but it also ensures your Nissan runs to the best of its ability. However, after a certain point, your tires will become unusable due to low tread, damaged rubber, or low air pressure. Although these things are inevitable, there are precautions you can take as a driver to ensure you get the most miles out of your tires!

Does my Nissan Need New Tires?

To get the most out of your tires, it is important to stay up to date with your routine tire inspections and maintenance. Properly maintained tires not only last longer, but can also help you achieve better fuel economy, safer handling, and better driving performance. You should always inspect your tires at least once a month for any signs of abnormalities, or more if you commute daily. Below are some of the common issues to look out for when driving or inspecting your vehicle’s tires:

• Treads are Worn Down – The most common reason people replace their tires is due to an insufficient amount of tread. If the tread on your tires measure less than 2/32 of an inch, then it is time to get new ones.
• Tires Keep Losing Air Pressure – If the tire pressure light keeps popping up on your vehicle’s dashboard even after filling it with air, this is usually an indication that there is a leak somewhere. When this happens, it is best to have your vehicle looked at so the tire can be repaired or replaced if necessary.
• Reduced Road Traction – If the traction on your vehicle doesn’t seem to be as strong as it once was, take it to a certified Nissan technician. It is best to air on the side of caution when dealing with tire traction, especially when driving on wet or icy roads.
• Vibration when Driving – At high speeds, a vehicle may vibrate due to an issue with the alignment. However, at low speeds, this is usually an indication that there is an issue with your vehicle’s tires.

Tire Maintenance Common Practices

Tire Rotations: The front and back tires of your vehicle perform differently from each other in terms of steering and braking, which can lead to uneven wear. Giving your vehicle a full tire rotation allows the tires to switch positions which allows the tread to wear down more evenly. Typically, a tire rotation should be performed every 5,000-7,000 miles, but you should always check with your owner’s manual to see the exact range for your vehicle.

Alignments: Your vehicle alignment is what keeps your tires straight and properly track on the road. When your alignment is off, it can lead to excessive wear on your tires and create dangerous steering conditions. Your alignment should be checked and adjusted at least once a year, and you should always have your alignment checked when getting new tires.

Tire Balancing: Tire balancing can help with even tread wear, as well as provide a smoother driving experience. Tire balancing involves adding small weights to the inside of your tires to create even weight distribution amongst the wheels. Tire balancing can help minimize vibrations while driving and deliver a smoother driving experience.

How can I get New Tires for my Vehicle?

Keeping up with regular tire maintenance can help your tires last longer, however it is only a matter of time before all the tires will have to be replaced. Generally, your vehicle’s tires can last up to 5-6 years before replacements are needed if regular maintenance is kept. If you notice any issues such as low tire tread, low tire pressure, or vibrations while driving, be sure to take your vehicle to our service center here at Victory Nissan of Dickson! Our certified technicians can help you pick the right tires for your vehicle, and we can install them with expert care and precision. Shop online or visit our Service Center for a tire inspection or replacement.