Why Do I Keep Getting Flat Tires?
Sure, there are far worse things than a flat tire. And it’s easy to get them fixed at a nearby Les Schwab. But a tire that keeps going flat can be both irritating and dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 11,000 accidents a year are due to damaged tires. Let’s take a look at the common causes of flat tires, why some tires keep going flat, and what you can do to improve the life of your tires.
Common Causes of Flat Tires
If you’ve asked, why do my tires keep going flat, you’re not alone. Flat tires happen all the time. There’s just no way to avoid all the glass, rocks, nails, screws, curbs, and other debris dotting parking lots, roads, and highways. Here are some of the more common reasons you could get a flat tire.
Tire Age
There is no exact shelf life for a set of tires. But, as tires age, they become more susceptible to foreign objects, cracking, and more due to heat, wear, UV rays, and everyday use. As long as your tire tread is okay and you don’t find cracking, your tires may be okay.
Tire Punctures and Cuts
The more the tread on your tires is worn down, the easier your tires can be cut, gouged, or punctured. Regularly inspecting the tread on your tires can help prevent these issues. If you do get a flat, we have the tools to get it done right.
Valve Stem Problems
The simple valve stem is vitally important on today’s tires. That valve allows you to add and remove air from your tires, which helps with fuel and range efficiency, tire longevity, as well as your overall safety. If your valve stem becomes cracked, it can cause your tire pressure to drop dramatically, which could end in tire failure.
Improper Inflation
Adding air to tires is a good skill to have. Here’s how to add air to your tires. Why is proper inflation important? Because too much air can cause the rubber to separate and crack, while not enough air could affect load-carrying capacity or the rubber to break down as the sidewall bulges outward. Having the right air pressure can help your tires last longer, which will save you money. You’ll find your proper inflation levels on your driver’s side door placard (example above). Check yours once a month. Or, simply stop by Les Schwab, and we’ll top off the air for free.
Faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensor
The TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) sensor in each of your wheel and tire assemblies continually monitors the tire pressure in your tires. If any of them fall below 25% of the recommended air pressure, a light will appear on your dash. As with anything on a car or truck, things eventually wear down and stop working. Your TPMS sensors can eventually fail, leaving you without a warning. Or that dashboard light will appear for no reason. The next time you buy tires at Les Schwab, we’ll check your TPMS sensors and suggest replacing them if needed.
Rim Leaks
Unlike a bicycle, the tires on your car or truck do not have an inner tube. Instead, the bead seat, or the area where the tire and wheel connect, helps keep the air inside your tire. If rocks or other debris get in there, as tires age, or as rims get damaged, air can begin to leak out of the tire. This is often a slow air leak. If your tires are slowly leaking air, stop by Les Schwab. We can take a look and offer suggestions.
How To Prevent Flat Tires
Preventing flats starts by keeping an eye on your tires.
Regular Tire Maintenance and Rotations
After every oil change, check the tread on your tires and look for dry rot and cracks on the valve stem. Additionally, every 5,000 miles, get your tires rotated. When you have Les Schwab tires, those rotations are free and part of America’s Best Tire Warranty. Finally, stop by Les Schwab anytime for a free visual inspection of your tires.
Proper Inflation Techniques
Check and add air to your tires every month. Properly inflated tires can last longer and improve MPG and range, saving you money.
Tread Wear Inspection
The tread on your tires helps you grip the road. But that tread also helps keep glass, rocks, nails, and other debris from cutting or puncturing your tires. A quick tread inspection can help you avoid that issue. All you need is a penny and a few minutes to check the tread on your tires.
Avoiding Potholes and Road Debris
Potholes can cause bent wheel rims, internal tire damage, alignment problems, and shock and strut issues. All of those can lead to tire damage or uneven wear. Schedule an appointment at Les Schwab for a free visual inspection.
When To Seek Professional Help
At Les Schwab, we fix millions of flat tires every year. Stop by when you experience any of the following.
Slow Leaks
Tires lose air pressure over time, but a slow leak can speed that up. Check your tire pressure every month. Go to your local Les Schwab and we’ll check your tire pressure for free.
Choosing the Right Tire
Tires that fit your vehicle and your lifestyle are important. The professionals at Les Schwab can show you all of your options, from highway tires to off-road options.
Tire Replacement
The tread on your tires will eventually wear down enough that you’ll need to replace them. When that happens, drive to your local Les Schwab. We’ll ensure you get the right tires for what and where you drive, along with America’s Best Tire Warranty.
Les Schwab Is Home to America’s Best Tire Warranty
The tires you buy at Les Schwab come with America’s Best Tire Warranty. That includes our 60-day satisfaction guarantee, no-hassle road hazard protection, as well as free tire maintenance and flat repairs.