SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Discount Tire/America's Tire is offering drivers free tire safety and air pressure checks at its 1,100-plus branded retail stores in the 37 states where it operates, in connection with National Tire Safety Week.
"At Discount Tire, the safety of our customers is a top priority, and National Tire Safety Week is a perfect way to remind all drivers to stay safe on the roads this summer," said Mark Sorine, vice president of environmental, health, safety and quality at Discount Tire.
"The increase of heat can bring dangerous tire conditions. Going the extra mile to get your tires checked keeps your family and fellow drivers safe on the road."
During National Tire Safety Week, which runs June 27 -July 3, Discount Tire customers can schedule a complimentary service appointment to have their tires inspected. The Scottsdale-based company also is offering online savings opportunities on select tires and wheels of up to $210, from July 1 to 5. Customers are encouraged to book an appointment online at DiscountTire.com to save on wait times in the store.
According to national car club AAA Inc., as many as 42 million personal vehicle owners are expected to take to the roads during the four-day Independence Day holiday weekend.
National Tire Safety Week is an initiative of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association, held annually to remind drivers to check their tires and wheels.
According to information from the USTMA, 70% of drivers across the U.S. reported not checking their tire pressure in the last 30 days. Discount Tire recommends checking tire air pressure at least once a month to help maintain good fuel economy and mitigate potential tire issues.
Other safety tips from Discount Tire:
- Get Pressure Right and Check It Often — Check tire pressures at least once a month when they're cool, especially before a long trip. Low pressure leads to poor handling and worse gas mileage, excessive wear, and overloading. Temperature change affects air pressure (for every 10 degrees in ambient temperature change, the tire air pressure changes 1 PSI).
- Check Your Tread — Tread depth determines a vehicle's safe stopping distance. You can check it by sticking a penny upside down in a tread groove; if Lincoln's head is visible, it's time to replace the tire.
- Rotate Often — Tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles or earlier if uneven wear develops.
- Check Your Trunk — Most new vehicles come equipped with tire inflation kits that include puncture-coating sealants and air compressors instead of a traditional spare tire. Consider purchasing a roadside-assistance plan.
- Know Your Age — The older a tire, the higher the risk for failure. As a tire ages, the rubber becomes harder and brittle, losing elasticity and strength. The age of your tire can be found by checking the DOT number stamped on its sidewall. Discount Tire recommends replacing any tire that's six years old or more.
