Defective or badly worn tires are a contributory factor in many vehicle accidents, particularly in the wet, and as you head out onto the highways this year it’s a good idea to check all your tires before traveling to ensure a trouble free drive to your destination.

In particular, when preparing for vacation motorists should remember that their vehicles may be carrying a heavier than usual load often in warm conditions and traveling much longer distances than usual. Morris Tire recommends motorists undertake a simple 5 minute tire safety check to ensure that their tires are safe before starting their journey.

1. Check and adjust if necessary, the tire pressure in each tire including the spare as recommended in the manufacturer’s handbook.
2. Clean dirt from around valves and fit dust caps to all tires.
3. Remove stones and other foreign objects from the tread.
4. A tip to check that your tires have the proper tread: By using a penny as a quick reference, insert the penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s face showing, but with his head upside-down. If you are able to see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire needs replacement. If you see a wear bar across the width of the tread while facing it, it’s time to replace the tire.
5. Check for un-even tire wear which might mean steering misalignment or out-of-balance wheels.
6. Check tires for cuts and bulges which could render the tire defective and potentially dangerous.
7. We recommend that if your tires need replacing they should be replaced in two’s or all four.

If you’re uncomfortable checking your own tires you can take advantage of our free tire check.