Living in the Phoenix area comes with its perks; however, it also presents challenges, especially when it comes to vehicle maintenance. One of the often overlooked aspects of car care, in this scorching desert climate, is tire maintenance. The impact of relentless heat on tires can be significant, leading to premature wear and tear if not properly addressed. We are going to review how the Phoenix heat affects tires, how your vehicle’s tires can directly impact your suspension system, and some tips to extend your tires’ lifespan.
Effects of High Temperatures on Tires
Phoenix and Scottsdale summers are notorious for their extreme temperatures, with the heat often soaring well above 100°F. Such intense heat can take a toll on your vehicle’s tires in several ways:
- Tire Pressure: High temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to overinflation. Conversely, when temperatures drop at night, tire pressure can decrease. Fluctuations in tire pressure can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.
- Tire Wear: The scorching pavement can accelerate tire wear, causing the rubber to deteriorate faster. Excessive heat can also cause the tire compound to harden, reducing traction and increasing the risk of blowouts.
- Dry Rot: Prolonged exposure to intense heat and UV rays can cause the rubber to dry out and develop cracks, known as dry rot. This compromises the structural integrity of the tire, making it more susceptible to failure.
Impact of Tires on the Suspension System
Your vehicle’s tires play a crucial role not only in providing traction and stability, but also in directly impacting the performance of the suspension system. Now that we have reviewed how our high temperatures can have an impact on tires, before we dive into how to extend your tires’ lifespan, let’s review the impact of your tires on the suspension system:
- Tire Wear Patterns: Uneven tire wear, often caused by misalignment or improper tire inflation, can result in imbalanced weight distribution on the suspension system. This imbalance can lead to premature wear and tear on suspension components such as shocks, struts, and springs, compromising your vehicle’s ride quality and safety.
- Shock Absorption: Healthy tires with sufficient tread depth help absorb road shocks and vibrations, reducing the strain on the suspension system. Worn-out or improperly inflated tires transfer more impact force to the suspension, potentially accelerating its deterioration over time.
- Cornering Stability: Tires that have worn unevenly or are improperly inflated can affect your vehicle’s cornering stability. This places additional stress on the suspension system as it works to compensate for the irregular tire behavior, increasing the likelihood of suspension-related issues.
Tips for Tire Care and Maintenance
To mitigate the adverse effects of Phoenix’s heat on your tires and suspension system, here are some essential tips to extend your tires’ lifespan:
- Regular Tire Inspections: Check your tire pressure frequently, especially during the summer months. Ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Consider investing in a tire pressure gauge for accurate readings.
- Proper Tire Rotation: Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear. This helps extend their lifespan and improves overall performance. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended rotation intervals.
- Avoid Overloading: Excessive weight can put strain on your tires, leading to increased wear and reduced fuel efficiency. Be mindful of your vehicle’s load capacity and avoid overloading it, especially during hot weather.
- Cooling Measures: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in shaded areas or use car shades to protect your tires from direct sunlight. This can help reduce heat buildup and minimize the risk of dry rot.
In addition to tire care, it’s essential to prioritize overall vehicle maintenance, including regular tune-ups and suspension system checks. The extreme heat in the Phoenix area can exacerbate existing issues and put additional stress on your vehicle’s components.
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle in Phoenix, proactive care is key to ensuring its longevity and performance. Whether you need a tune-up, suspension system inspection, transmission repair, or something else, Advanced Transmissions & Emissions is your trusted partner. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, you can rest assured that your vehicle is in good hands. Don’t let the heat wear out your tires prematurely. Contact Advanced Transmissions & Emissions today for all your Phoenix area vehicle needs.
