When it comes time to send your child off to college, you’ll want to make sure you’ve taught them everything you can to ensure they stay safe. This is especially important when it comes to the vehicle they’re going to use on campus. Even though we’re sure you’ve given them a reliable vehicle for the journey ahead, there’s so much they’ll need to do to keep it in good condition.
In this article, we’re going to focus on car tires, one of the most critical components of a vehicle. While there’s a lot to know about tires, one of the more critical things to know is what wears out car tires faster than usual. We’re here to give you the answers so that you can relay them to your kid before they leave to live on their own.
Driving Habits
The first thing to know is that a person’s driving habits will significantly impact tire longevity. Aggressive behaviors such as hard accelerating, sudden braking, and sharp turns can wear out the tread around the edges, which means you’ll need to replace the tires more frequently. Having worn-out tires is one of the reasons why some tires squeal when turning.
While it can be difficult to talk your child out of this type of driving style, it’s up to you to encourage safe and mindful driving habits. Let them know that taking things easier behind the wheel will cause their tires to last longer and improve their overall fuel efficiency, both of which will help them save money.
Improper Tire Maintenance
Next, make sure you go over the importance of tire maintenance. Neglecting this can significantly reduce a tire’s lifespan. Missing regular rotations, failing to check tire pressure, and ignoring the necessity of wheel alignments all play a role in the premature aging of your tires. Before they leave, develop a maintenance schedule and try to get them to stick to it. Remind them that it’s not just about saving money in the long run but also about keeping them safe when behind the wheel.
Road Conditions
Of course, your child won’t directly cause all the reasons why tires may wear out faster than usual. Potholes, uneven roads, and poorly maintained surfaces can ruin any good set of tires. These conditions can cause punctures, sidewall damage, and misalignment, which put excessive strain on the tread of their wheels.
When possible, coach your college-bound driver to steer clear of such hazards or slow down when encountering them. Let them know that you realize it’s not always possible, but it’s best for the longevity of their vehicle to try their best.
Weather Effects
On top of road conditions, environmental factors, particularly extreme temperatures and exposure to the sun’s UV rays, can also be tough on a set of tires. High heat can degrade rubber, making it more prone to cracks and blowouts, while colder weather can lead to underinflation issues. If possible, buy your child seasonal tires so that they won’t have to worry about these issues as much.
