Corey’s Corner (of Lundgren’s)

Now that the cold and winter seasons have gone, it is once again construction and pothole season. This means it’s time to check the front end of your vehicle for loose, worn, or damaged components. All of these items can very quickly affect tire life, fuel economy, ride quality, and the overall handling of your vehicle. A quick glance at the front tires can, usually, indicate obvious problems; however, a complete front end inspection and alignment check will leave no question unanswered. Most vehicles still have camber, caster and toe adjustment (like vehicles of the past) and many now have these adjustments in the rear suspension as well. Along with a properly aligned vehicle, tire pressures are also an important factor in getting the most life out of your tires. Oftentimes, people can be confused about what pressures their tires should be set at. Most auto manufacturers put a decal on the on the driver’s door opening, or on the door near the latch, that lists the manufacturers recommended tire size and pressure. In addition, the tire manufacturer will put tire pressure numbers on the sidewall of the tire. This is the maximum pressure that a tire can be inflated to, if loaded within the weight limits, also noted on the sidewall. If new tires are in your future, be sure to have an alignment check and any necessary repairs to the front end completed so that the life of your new tires will not be compromised by any underlying alignment issues.