August 20, 2025
From Deerfoot potholes to gravel roads, Calgary driving is tough on tires. Learn our top maintenance tips to maximize your tires' lifespan, improve safety, and save money.
Your tires are the only part of your car that actually touches the road, and in a city like Calgary, they take a serious beating. Between potholes, constant construction, and the freeze-thaw cycles that wreck our roads, proper tire maintenance is key for your safety and your wallet. Here are our top tips for getting the most out of your tires.
This is the easiest and most important thing you can do. Under-inflated tires wear out faster, hurt your gas mileage, and make your vehicle handle poorly. Check your pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold (before you've driven on them). You'll find the correct pressure on the sticker inside your driver's side door jamb. Don't use the number on the tire itself!
Tires wear differently depending on their position on your car. Rotating them regularly (we suggest every 8,000 to 10,000 km) helps them wear evenly, which makes them last much longer. While you're at it, get them balanced. An unbalanced tire can cause vibrations that lead to premature wear on your tires and suspension.
Hitting one of Calgary's infamous potholes can easily throw your alignment out of whack. A misaligned car will chew through tires quickly and unevenly. If you feel your car pulling to one side or your steering wheel isn't straight, it's time for an alignment check. We recommend checking it at least once a year or any time you get new tires.
Give your tires a quick visual inspection regularly. Look for cuts, bulges, or anything stuck in the tread. Also, monitor your tread depth. The legal minimum in Alberta is 3/32", but for safe driving in wet conditions, we recommend replacing tires when they get to 4/32". An easy way to check is the toonie test: if the tread doesn't cover the bear's paws, it's time for a new set.
Following these simple tips can significantly extend the life of your tires, improve your vehicle's safety, and save you money. If you have any questions or need any of these services, the team at Shah Tire is always here to help.