Tires are one of the most important parts of your INFINITI. Whether you’re new to driving or you’ve been behind the wheel for years, tire maintenance isn’t something to overlook. The way your tires perform affects everything from how smooth your drive feels to how well your car handles in the rain. Taking care of them helps keep you safer and can even save you money in the long run.
Warm summer weather in June often means more time spent on the road, whether it’s for weekend trips, longer commutes, or daily errands around Queens. All that extra driving can wear down your tires faster than expected, especially if they’re not routinely checked. Knowing what to look for and when to ask for help keeps your INFINITI riding comfortably and helps prevent issues before they grow into something bigger.
Regular Tire Inspections
It doesn’t take a lot of time or tools to check your tires. A simple visual inspection now and then can make a big difference. You just need a sharp eye and a few pointers to know what to look for. Staying on top of minor wear and tear can help avoid bigger, costlier problems down the road and keeps your drive safer.
Here’s what to look for during a quick tire check:
- Worn-down tread or bald spots
- Cracks or cuts in the tire surface
- Objects like nails, pebbles, or glass stuck in the tread
- Uneven wear between the edges and center of the tire
- Bubbles or bulges along the sidewall
Tire pressure is just as important. With warmer summer temperatures in Queens, air inside your tires expands, which can lead to overinflation. On the flip side, cooler nights or unexpected drops in temperature can decrease pressure. Too much pressure can make your drive feel rough, while too little can hurt fuel economy and your car’s grip on the road. Check the pressure once a month using the numbers on the sticker found inside your driver-side door.
You should also pay attention to how your INFINITI handles. If your steering feels off, the ride seems unusually bumpy, or the car pulls to one side, your tires might be trying to tell you something. Those are signs it’s time for a professional inspection.
Understanding Tire Tread Depth
It’s easy to overlook, but your tire tread is doing the hard work of keeping your car planted on the road. In wet weather, the tread helps funnel water away, preventing hydroplaning and helping you stop more quickly. Even if tread loss looks minor, your tires may no longer be performing the way they should.
You don’t need fancy tools to check your tread. Try the penny test. Place a penny head-first into the tread grooves. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, that means your tread is below the safe level and it’s time to consider replacing the tire.
Tires also come with tread wear bars, which are small ridges built into the grooves of the tire. If the tread has worn down to the same height as these bars, the tire is considered worn.
Uneven tread loss on one side often indicates issues with wheel alignment or suspension. This kind of wear reduces control and should be inspected early. To stay on the safe side, check tread depth a few times a year, especially before summer road trips where performance and safety matter most.
Rotating Your Tires
Rotating your tires lets them wear down more evenly. Front and rear tires wear differently because of the way cars brake and turn. By moving the tires around regularly, you get more life out of each one. It’s a smart habit that improves handling and saves you money over time.
Most experts recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. A great rule of thumb is to do it when you get your oil changed. That way, you stay on schedule without adding an extra trip to your list. A service technician can rotate the tires and make sure your alignment is still spot-on.
Here are a few helpful rotation tips:
- Stick to a consistent rotation method like front-to-back or cross-rotation depending on your drivetrain
- Make your tire rotation part of your standard service booking
- Pay attention to handling after rotation to spot early signs of alignment issues
When to Replace Your Tires
Every tire reaches the end of its life. Knowing when it’s time to replace yours helps avoid unexpected troubles on the road. Driving on worn-out tires can put you at risk, especially during wet or hot driving conditions.
Common signs you need new tires include:
- Tread depth falling below safe levels
- Irregular or uneven wear patterns
- Visible damage like cracks, punctures, or bulges
- A rougher, louder, or shakier ride than usual
One thing many drivers overlook is how tire wear affects handling. Alignment problems or worn suspension parts can cause tires to wear faster on one edge. If you only replace the tire without solving the root cause, the problem will come back fast. Having your suspension and alignment checked during a tire replacement visit is always smart.
When shopping for new tires, go for trusted brands and types suited for your INFINITI. Good tires will deliver better performance and peace of mind, especially when the roads heat up in the summer.
Keeping Your Tires in Top Shape with INFINITI City of Queens
Taking care of your tires doesn’t need to be complicated. By staying on top of basic maintenance like inspections, rotations, and timely replacements, your INFINITI will deliver a smoother, safer ride throughout every season.
Making tire care part of your regular routine helps you catch small issues before they lead to breakdowns or unsafe driving. Whether you’re heading across Queens or just down the street, well-maintained tires perform better and last longer.
At INFINITI City of Queens, we know what your INFINITI needs to stay road-ready. Our service team treats every car like their own, offering expert attention to keep you driving confidently. From tread checks to tire rotations and quality replacements, we make sure you’re ready no matter where your plans take you.
Ready to keep your drive smooth and safe? INFINITI City of Queens is here to help. Explore our selection of INFINITI used cars to find the perfect match for your needs. Partner with us for quality service that ensures your car is road-ready and reliable, no matter where your journey takes you.
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