The Best Time to Get Your Tires Checked (Hint: Before the Summer Drive)

Summer is the season for road trips, long drives, and vacations. But if you want those drives to be smooth and safe, one important thing you shouldn’t forget is checking your tires. The hot weather can affect tire pressure, tread wear, and overall performance. Ignoring tire maintenance can lead to problems such as poor fuel efficiency, blowouts, or even accidents. That’s why it's important to know the best time to get your tires checked — and that time is *before* you hit the road for your summer adventures.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long cross-country drive, making sure your tires are in good shape is one of the easiest ways to avoid trouble. Many drivers think about oil changes and brake checks but overlook their tires. Yet tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so they play a key role in keeping you and your passengers safe. By inspecting your tires before the summer heat peaks, you can prevent issues and enjoy a worry-free trip.

Why Summer Heat Affects Your Tires

Hot weather causes the air inside your tires to expand. This increase in pressure can cause your tires to become overinflated, making them more prone to blowouts. On the flip side, if your tires were already underinflated, the heat can make the problem worse by causing uneven wear. Tire pressure changes faster in extreme temperatures, and summer heat is no exception.

Getting your tire pressure checked regularly is important, but it’s especially critical during changing seasons. Spring and early summer are the best times to make sure everything is in top condition. A properly inflated tire not only helps you stay safe but also improves gas mileage and extends the life of your tires.

When Exactly Should You Check Your Tires?

The ideal time to get your tires checked is late spring or early summer. By then, temperatures start to rise, and most people begin planning road trips and vacations. Checking your tires at this point gives you time to fix any issues — such as worn tread, low pressure, or alignment problems — before they turn into bigger problems during your drive.

Experts recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month and definitely before any long drive. It’s also smart to check your tires if your car has been sitting unused for a while, as tires can lose pressure or develop flat spots over time. Doing a full inspection — including checking for cuts, cracks, or bulges — gives you peace of mind when you're out on the road.

What to Look for During a Tire Check

When checking your tires, there are four key things to look at: tread depth, tire pressure, wear patterns, and physical damage.

• Tread depth helps your tires grip the road, especially in rainy weather. Use a coin or tread gauge to see if your tread is still deep enough. If the tread is too low, it’s time to replace the tire.

• Tire pressure should match the number listed in your vehicle’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door. Use a tire gauge to check it when your tires are cold.

• Uneven wear can mean your tires are not properly aligned or balanced. If one part of your tire is more worn than the others, get it checked by a professional.

Don’t Forget the Spare Tire

A lot of drivers forget their spare tire until they need it. Don’t wait for an emergency. Check the air pressure and condition of your spare tire when checking your other tires. Make sure it's properly inflated and has no visible damage. If your car uses a compact spare (also called a "donut"), remember that it's only meant for short distances and lower speeds.

Keeping a good spare tire means you won’t be stuck waiting on the side of the road if you get a flat. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of stress.

Professional Tire Inspection vs. DIY Check

You can do basic tire checks at home, like checking tire pressure and tread depth. But a professional tire inspection can catch problems that are hard to see, such as internal damage or poor alignment. Many auto shops offer free or low-cost tire inspections, especially during the start of summer. It’s a small investment that could prevent a major repair later.

A trained technician can also rotate your tires, balance them, and check your vehicle’s alignment. These services help your tires wear evenly and last longer. Getting your tires checked by a professional mechanic is especially important if you’re planning a long summer road trip.

Benefits of Timely Tire Checks

Getting your tires checked before summer offers several clear benefits:

• Improved safety – You lower your risk of blowouts, skidding, or accidents caused by worn-out tires.

• Better fuel economy – Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, helping your car use less gas.

• Longer tire life – Regular maintenance keeps your tires in good shape, so you don’t have to replace them as often.

• Smoother ride – Well-balanced and aligned tires make driving more comfortable and reduce noise and vibration.

• Peace of mind – You’ll drive with confidence knowing your tires are ready for the summer heat and long drives.

Tips to Remember

Here are a few simple tips to help you stay on top of your tire care during summer:

1. Check your tire pressure monthly and before any long trip.

2. Inspect your tires visually for signs of wear or damage.

3. Don’t forget to check your spare tire.

4. Get a professional tire inspection at least once a year.

5. Rotate your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres or as recommended by your car manufacturer.

The best time to get your tires checked is *before* your summer road trip begins. With temperatures rising and long drives ahead, your tires need to be in the best shape possible. Taking just a few minutes to inspect them now can save you money and stress later. Whether you do it yourself or take your vehicle to a shop, tire care should be part of your regular summer car maintenance routine.

Stay safe, save fuel, and enjoy the road — starting with a tire check today.