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Tire Maintenance & Tire Safety: Key Tire Tips for Safer Driving

By Sun Driving Academy – Toronto, Ontario

When was the last time you went running in worn-out shoes? If the soles were cracked or the tread completely gone, you’d probably think twice. Your vehicle’s tires work the same way. Just as good shoes protect your feet, well-maintained tires protect you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

At Sun Driving Academy, we teach that safe driving doesn’t stop with good habits behind the wheel—it also includes proper vehicle maintenance. Tire safety is a critical part of road safety, especially in Ontario’s changing weather conditions.

Why Tire Safety Matters

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road. They must handle sudden braking, sharp turns, wet pavement, snow, ice, and potholes. Tires in poor condition reduce traction, increase stopping distance, and significantly raise the risk of collisions.

Maintaining your tires properly improves:

Signs of Tire Wear to Watch For

Regular visual inspections can help you catch problems early. Look for these warning signs:

Uneven Tread Wear

  • Overinflated tires: Excessive wear in the centre of the tread

  • Underinflated tires: Wear along the outer edges

Both conditions reduce traction and should be corrected immediately.

Low Tread Depth

Tires should be replaced when tread depth is less than 1.5 mm. Many tires include tread-wear indicators—if they are level with the road surface, it’s time for new tires.

Visible Damage

Replace tires if you notice:

  • Bulges or bubbles

  • Cracks in the sidewall

  • Exposed cords

  • Deep cuts or worn spots

These issues can lead to sudden tire failure.

How Much Air Should Be in Your Tires?

The correct tire pressure is not printed on the tire itself. Instead, check:

  • The driver’s door frame

  • Inside the glove box

  • The fuel cap

  • Your vehicle owner’s manual

Maintaining the proper air pressure improves handling, extends tire life, and reduces the chance of a blowout.

Warning Signs While Driving

Once you’re on the road, you can’t see your tires—but you can feel them.

Have your tires inspected immediately if you notice:

  • Shaking or bumping

  • Excessive vibration

  • Pulling to one side

These may indicate an out-of-balance tire, uneven wear, or alignment issues.

Essential Tire Maintenance Tips

Tire Rotation & Balancing

Just like shoes, tires wear differently depending on position and driving habits. Rotating your tires every 10,000 kilometres helps distribute wear evenly and extend tire life.

After rotation, tires should also be balanced to reduce vibration and uneven pressure.

Wheel Alignment

If your vehicle pulls left or right, your wheels may be out of alignment. This can happen from:

  • Hitting potholes

  • Driving on rough roads

  • Improper balancing

Correct alignment improves handling, prevents rapid tire wear, and makes driving safer.

Choosing the Right Tires

The type and quality of tires you use directly affect traction and safety.

Keep these points in mind:

  • Tires must meet Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Act standards

  • Tires deteriorate with age—even if not used

  • Tires should not be older than 10 years

  • All four tires should be similar in size and type

  • Tires must not rub against the vehicle or interfere with safe operation

Winter Tire Safety in Ontario

Ontario winters demand extra traction. For best results:

  • Use four winter tires or four all-weather tires with the same tread pattern

  • Winter tires improve braking, steering, and control in snow and ice

  • Studded tires are legal in Northern Ontario only

Proper winter tires are one of the most effective ways to stay safe during cold-weather driving.

Environmentally Responsible Tire Care

Scrap tires are a serious environmental concern. Proper tire maintenance:

  • Extends tire life

  • Reduces waste

  • Delays disposal

To maximize tire longevity:

Tire Safety Is Road Safety

When the rubber hits the road, your safety depends on your tires. At Sun Driving Academy, we teach students that responsible driving includes understanding vehicle maintenance basics—because good drivers take care of both their skills and their vehicles.

By keeping your tires road-ready, you reduce risks, improve control, and help make Ontario roads safer for everyone.https://www.ontario.ca/document/official-mto-drivers-handbook/maintaining-your-vehicle

📞 Call or text: 416-458-6363
🌐 Website: https://sundrivingacademy.ca/
📍 Location: Oshawa, Ontario

Sun Driving Academy – Drive Safe. Drive Confident.

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