General Tire Maintenance Tips

Tires are the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road. Regular maintenance supports safety, fuel efficiency, and tread life. The practices below reflect general guidance commonly published by Transport Canada, the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada, and major tire manufacturers.

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Transport Canada recommends checking tire pressure at least monthly, and before long trips, when tires are cold. The correct pressure for your vehicle is printed on the driver side door jamb sticker or the owner manual. The number molded on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure, not the recommended pressure.

2. Rotate and Balance

Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires at intervals specified in the owner manual, commonly every 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres, to help the tread wear evenly. Balancing helps reduce vibration and uneven wear.

3. Wheel Alignment

An impact with a pothole or curb can change the wheel alignment. Symptoms include the vehicle pulling to one side, a steering wheel that is not centred when driving straight, or uneven tread wear. Have the alignment inspected by a qualified technician if any of these symptoms appear.

4. Monitor Tread Depth and Condition

Inspect tires regularly for cuts, bulges, embedded objects, and uneven wear. In Alberta the legal minimum tread depth is 3/32 of an inch. Many tire manufacturers recommend replacement at 4/32 of an inch or earlier for best wet and winter performance. Consult a certified technician for an accurate assessment.

The information above is general and is not a replacement for the specific maintenance schedule in your vehicle owner manual.