While your brakes stop the wheels it is your TIRES that stop the Car. So with the weather turning nasty now is a great time to ensure your tires are up to the task. The easiest way to know what shape your tires are in is to have them inspected by your trusted mechanic. He can also correct the air pressure as needed during his inspection. For the âdo-it-yourselfersâ, tires are considered unsafe when they have less than 2/32â of tread remaining. Most tires have âWear Barsâ in the deepest part of the tread that is raised 2/32â.
When the tire is worn to the wear bar it is time to replace. Personally I think that tires even close to that measurement should be replaced before heading into winter! A tire gauge is another must have for you do-it-yourselfers. Low tire pressure is the number one cause of premature tire wear and can lead to unsafe  handling, even to the point of an accident. Worn tires are more likely to hydroplane in wet weather and offer little traction in snow and ice.
Drive safely, from the Longâs Car Care Family
