December 29, 2024
Tires are so reliable these days that few drivers pay much attention to them. But tires wear out. They have a tough job since they are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. They have to get your vehicle going from a stop, keep it going, make sure it is headed in the direction you want it to go, and –importantly – slow and stop it.
The only time many drivers think about their tires is when there's a problem, such as a flat. Or, they may lose control when they find their vehicle isn't stopping or steering like it used to. One major safety organization estimates that 1 out of every 11 crashes is related to a tire issue.
Many of those problems are caused by tire tread wearing out. The rubber is worn off by friction after hours and hours on roads. The sidewalls can also be damaged by your tires hitting curbs, potholes, or other debris. Plus, rubber ages as time passes. We recommend you let us inspect your tires periodically so we can spot potential problems before it's too late.
When it's time for you to replace your tires, it's important to know which type is right for your driving habits and what environments your tires usually encounter. The most common tires are called all-season. As the name says, they are pretty good in every season and their tread lasts a long time. In other words, they're good all-purpose, all-around tires.
Another option is a performance all-season tire, which has a little more grip but won't last as long. Then there are ultra-high-performance tires (UHP) which have wonderful grip and handling but an even shorter lifespan. They also aren't the greatest in slippery conditions.
For those who live in more extreme climates, especially where there is a lot of snow, winter tires are definitely worth considering because their performance in cold, snowy conditions can make a huge difference in traction, improving steering, and stopping. Some places require winter tires during certain periods of winter.
Don't underestimate how much of a difference tires can make on your vehicle. Sure, you probably don't pay much attention to them, but they are one of the most important investments you can make, and they can pay valuable dividends when you need them to come through for you.
Tuffy St. Johns
2770 Racetrack Rd.
St. Johns , Florida 32259
904.230.3363
December 22, 2024
Maybe your vehicle feels like Breaking Bad. In other words, when you brake, things are bad. You may find it takes you a longer distance to stop, you feel a vibration, or its pulsating when you depress the brake pedal, or perhaps your vehicle pulls to one side. Those can be symptoms of failing b... More
December 15, 2024
Think of how many times you put your foot on your vehicles brake pedal every day. And think of how much you rely on your brakes to slow down and stop your momentum. When it comes to safety systems, your brakes are at the top of the list, and thats why its so important to keep them in top condit... More
December 8, 2024
What's the dif? To an automotive technician, it's the differential, a part of your vehicle that helps direct power from the engine to the wheels. The differential is a gearbox that enables the drive wheels to turn at different speeds (they do that when you turn). Inside the differential is a f... More