Top Tire Maintenance Mistakes We See All the Time (and How to Avoid Them)
Whether you're heading down the highway to Chilliwack, running errands around Surrey, or just taking the kids to footy on the weekend, your tires are doing more than you think. And while it might seem like they’re low-maintenance, even the most seasoned drivers miss the basics now and then.
At Country Tire, we’ve seen every kind of tire problem imaginable—so here’s a breakdown of the most common tire care mistakes locals make and how to stay ahead of them.
1. Not Checking Your Tire Pressure Often Enough
We all get busy, and checking your tires doesn’t always top the to-do list. But if your tires are underinflated or overinflated, you’re burning more fuel, risking blowouts, and wearing them out faster than you should.
Local Tip: Make it a habit to check your tire pressure once a month—especially when the weather takes a turn. And yes, this goes for your winter tires too.
Want to know why this matters? Have a look at The Dangers of Driving on Underinflated Tires.
2. Skipping Tire Rotations
This one’s easy to forget. Rotating your tires keeps them wearing evenly, which means better grip, better mileage, and fewer problems down the line.
If you're unsure how often to do it, check out our Tire Rotation Guide. It’s all laid out nice and simple.
3. Ignoring What Your Tires Look Like
You might glance at your tires and think they look fine—but a closer look could tell a different story. Small cracks, sidewall bulges, or sneaky nails can go unnoticed until it’s too late.
Give your tires a once-over now and then, especially before longer drives. Not sure what to look for? Here’s a handy guide: Can You Identify the Signs of Tire Wear?
4. Driving on Old Tires
It’s not just about how deep the tread is—rubber doesn’t last forever. Our damp BC climate can speed up tire aging, even if they still “look good.” If your tires are more than six years old, have a peek at the tire date code or swing by the shop and we’ll take a look.
Shopping for used tires? We get it. That’s why we carefully inspect everything we sell—check out Why More Drivers Are Choosing Used Tires in Surrey.
5. Waiting Too Long to Replace Bald Tires
If you’ve driven through a Surrey rainstorm, you know how slick the roads can get. Tires with worn-down tread just don’t grip the same—and that puts you (and others) at risk.
Do a quick toonie test now and then or check your tread depth before things get dodgy.
When the time comes, we’ve got plenty of options for you—take a look at our new and used tires to find the right fit for your ride and your budget.
6. Putting Off Seasonal Tire Swaps
Let’s be honest—spring and autumn always creep up faster than we think. But leaving your winter tires on too long (or waiting too long to switch them over) can affect both your fuel economy and safety.
Wondering if all-weather tires might be a better year-round solution? Come by the shop or give us a ring—we’ll help you make the right call.
7. Trying to Fix or Install Tires Yourself
We know—you’re handy. But trying to mount, fix, or patch a tire at home can easily go sideways. One slip-up could lead to slow leaks, wobbly rides, or worse.
Your safety’s worth the visit. Book in with our team and we’ll sort it out properly.
Final Thoughts: A Little Tire TLC Goes a Long Way
Tires are more than just round bits of rubber—they affect how your car handles, how much petrol you burn, and how smooth your drive feels. Looking after them doesn’t take long, but it can save you a lot of hassle (and money) down the road.
Need a hand? Looking for a good deal on tires or want to know if used ones will work for you? We’re here to help. Give us a shout or book online—we’re here to help, eh!
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Proudly serving Surrey, BC and nearby communities. You can count on Country Tire for honest advice, quality tires, and the kind of friendly service you’d expect from your local shop.