How To Do a Tire Safety Check

Many parts of Canada will soon be hit by winter weather so now is the time to learn how to do a tire safety check.  A quick check of the air pressure, and a visual inspection of the tread and sidewall of the tire are proactive steps to avoid a blow-out. Here are the steps to follow when doing a tire safety check so you don’t get stranded this winter.

Tire Safety Check in 4 Easy Steps

1) Do a visual inspection of the tires. 

Damage to tire sidewall: This could be in the form of chunks of missing rubber, deep abrasions from hitting curbs, or a bulge in the sidewall. A bulge in the sidewall is likely related to a broken cord inside the tire.

​ This is a serious condition that will almost certainly lead to tire failure. Any chunking larger than a dime, or abrasion that has exposed the textile cords also warrant further inspection. 

2) Check the air pressure in all four tires.

Regular checks of inflation pressure : This is an often neglected, but important part of any tire safety check. Most late model vehicles have tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS for short). These systems alert you to low tire air pressure via dashboard indicator lights.  If this happens, be sure to check the tires immediately, including the spare tire.

3) Use the recommended tires for your vehicle and weather:

Tire size and speed rating: If you are not the original owner of the vehicle,  it is a good idea to check that the correct size was installed. You also want to ensure the tire has the right service description (load and speed rating). You can easily find the size and load rating on the side of your tire by using the guide on the left. Once you have noted the information off the tire itself, you can compare it to the tire size and specifications listed on the placard. If the wheels were changed 

4) Keep informed with up-to-date information about your tires.

Tire recalls : When you do a tire safety check,  it is easy to take the extra step to validate if there is a recall on your tires.  The Rubber Manufacturers Association’s Tire Recall Look-up Tool is an excellent resource.  You simply enter the DOT number of your tires in the recall tool. This will tell you if your tire is subject of any investigation or ​product recall.  If so, you are likely entitled to a new set of tires from the manufacturer at no cost! The site has information on the procedures to follow to get your tires replaced.

​At National Tire,we want you to be armed with all the information about how to do a tire safety check. This will give you more security and comfort during winter driving. If you have any questions about how to do a tire safety check, or you would like assistance with your next tire purchase, please visit www.nationaltire.ca You can also call us at 604.294.3788. Our customer service agents would be happy to assist you with any of your tire needs.