6 Most Common Tire Myths

What is the most important part of your vehicle? Well, we admittedly can’t say that one particular part is absolutely the most important, but we can say that your car’s tires definitely belong near the top of the list.

Naturally, this means that properly caring for and maintaining your tires must always be a priority. But unfortunately a number of wives tales and myths about tire care could put you at a disadvantage if you don’t know what advice to ignore rather than follow.

Fortunately, Popularmechanics.com is here to save the day with an article about the 6 most common tire myths:

Tires are arguably the most important component on your vehicle. They are, however, among the least understood features. Allow me to list and pop a few common misconceptions about tires.

1. The tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS) in my new car makes sure my tires are adequately inflated.The truth: TPMS isn't required to issue a warning until pressure is 25 percent below the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. That's "well below the pressure required for safe driving," according to AAA and "barely adequate to carry the vehicle's maximum load," says the Rubber Manufacturers' Association. TPMS is intended as a last-minute warning before imminent tire failure, not as a monitor to make sure your tires are properly inflated.

Buy a quality tire gauge and set your tire pressure to at least the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation, which is found on the driver's door jamb. I'd rather you set your tires 3 or even 5 psi high rather than 1 low. Tire-pressure gauges can be inaccurate, and tires leak as much as 1 psi per month. Higher pressure improves hydroplaning resistance and, if you're like many folks, you may not bother to check your tires again for six months.

Check out Popular Mechanic's full article to read more about common tire myths you need to ignore: 6 Common Tire Myths Debunked - Popular Mechanics