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At Arch Street Wheel & Tire in Little Rock, AR, we understand the importance of keeping your tires in top condition throughout the year. From the scorching summer heat to the occasional icy winter roads, the changing seasons bring unique challenges for your tires. To help you stay safe on the road and extend the life of your tires, we’ve put together this seasonal tire care guide.

Summer Tire Care: Beat the Heat

The hot Arkansas summers can be tough on your tires. Excessive heat can cause the air inside your tires to expand, which may lead to overinflation. Overinflated tires can wear unevenly and increase the risk of a blowout.

Key Tips for Summer Tire Care:

• Check Tire Pressure Regularly: As the temperature rises, so does your tire pressure. Check it monthly to ensure it's at the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
• Rotate Your Tires: Uneven wear is more common in the summer due to road heat. Regular tire rotations help distribute wear evenly.
• Inspect Tread Depth: Summer rain can lead to slick roads. Make sure your tires have enough tread to grip the road, especially in sudden downpours.
• Consider All-Season Tires: If you’re using summer tires, consider switching to all-season tires that can handle both the heat and unexpected rainstorms.

Fall Tire Care: Prepping for Cooler Weather

As the temperatures begin to cool, it’s a good time to make sure your tires are ready for the transition into winter. Arkansas doesn't get extreme winters, but fall can bring wet leaves, cooler temperatures, and the possibility of frost.

Key Tips for Fall Tire Care:

• Inspect for Damage: Summer heat can take a toll on your tires, so fall is a great time to look for signs of cracking, bulging, or excessive wear.
• Check Tire Pressure: Cooler temperatures cause air pressure to drop, so keep an eye on your tires as the temperature falls. Underinflated tires can wear out faster and decrease fuel efficiency.
• Consider Tire Alignment: Fall is a good time to check your vehicle’s alignment. Hitting summer potholes can knock your tires out of alignment, causing uneven wear.
• Check Your Spare: With unpredictable fall weather, now is a great time to ensure your spare tire is in good condition and properly inflated.

Winter Tire Care: Stay Safe on Cold Roads

While Little Rock, AR, doesn’t see heavy snow, cold temperatures and occasional icy conditions still make winter tire care essential. If you often travel to areas with harsher winters, you may want to consider winter tires.

Key Tips for Winter Tire Care:

• Switch to Winter Tires (If Necessary): Winter tires are designed to grip cold, icy, and snowy roads better than regular or all-season tires. If you’re sticking with all-season tires, ensure they have adequate tread depth.
• Monitor Tire Pressure: Cold air causes tires to lose pressure faster. Check your tire pressure more frequently in winter to avoid underinflation.
• Check Tread Depth: Tread depth is crucial for safe driving in winter. If your tires are worn out, replace them before winter weather hits.
• Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle: Many people pack up for the holidays, but be mindful of your vehicle’s weight. Too much weight can damage your tires, especially in winter conditions.

Spring Tire Care: Time for a Fresh Start

Spring is a time for renewal, and your tires are no exception. As temperatures warm up, roads can be slick with rain, and debris from winter can linger. Spring is the ideal season to give your tires a thorough inspection.

Key Tips for Spring Tire Care:

• Inspect for Winter Damage: Winter conditions can leave tires with wear and tear. Check for cracks, uneven wear, and damage from road debris.
• Rotate and Balance: Winter driving often leads to uneven tire wear. Schedule a tire rotation and balancing to ensure your tires wear evenly throughout the spring and summer months.
• Check Tire Alignment: Potholes and rough winter roads can throw off your tire alignment. Spring is a good time to get an alignment check to ensure smooth driving.
• Check Tire Pressure: As temperatures rise, so does tire pressure. Keep an eye on your tire’s inflation to avoid overinflation.

When to Replace Your Tires

While regular maintenance can extend the life of your tires, there comes a time when replacement is necessary. Worn-out tires compromise your safety and vehicle performance, no matter the season.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Tires:

• Low Tread Depth: If your tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires. Use the penny test: if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for a replacement.
• Cracks or Bulges: Cracking or bulging in the sidewall is a sign that your tires are breaking down and should be replaced.
• Vibration or Pulling: If your vehicle is vibrating excessively or pulling to one side, it could indicate uneven tire wear, and it might be time to replace the tires.

Choose Arch Street Wheel & Tire for All Your Tire Needs

At Arch Street Wheel & Tire, we’re committed to keeping drivers in Little Rock, AR, safe year-round. Whether you need a tire inspection, rotation, alignment, or a new set of tires for the season, our experienced team is here to help.

Don’t wait until you’re stuck on the side of the road with a flat! Schedule an appointment today to ensure your tires are ready for the road, no matter the season.

Contact Us Today

Ready to get your vehicle in top shape for the season? Visit us at Arch Street Wheel & Tire, located at 6705 Arch Street Pike, Little Rock, AR 72206, or give us a call at (501) 888-1111 to schedule your tire maintenance service.