Tire Care Advice from Ford Dealerships

Tires are a vital part of your vehicle’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. Whether you drive a compact sedan or a heavy-duty truck, your tires affect how your vehicle handles, brakes, and responds to road conditions. Regular tire care not only extends the life of your tires but also ensures that your car is safe on the road. For trusted guidance, there’s no better source than your local Ford car dealership. Ford dealerships have trained technicians and access to top-tier diagnostic tools, making them reliable partners in tire maintenance. In this article, we’ll dive into the essential tire care advice offered by Ford dealerships to keep your vehicle in peak condition.

Check Tire Pressure Monthly

Maintaining the correct tire pressure is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to prolong tire life and improve performance. Ford dealerships recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month and before any long trips. Use a high-quality tire pressure gauge or visit your dealership where they’ll use precision tools to get accurate readings.

Underinflated tires can cause poor fuel economy and increase wear on the tire shoulders. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, reduce traction and cause the center of the tire to wear prematurely. Ford recommends checking the label on your driver-side door jamb or consulting your owner's manual for the correct PSI.

Rotate Your Tires Regularly

Tire rotation ensures even wear on all four tires, which leads to a smoother ride and extends tire life. Ford dealerships suggest rotating your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles or during every oil change. Since front and rear tires wear differently—especially on front-wheel or rear-wheel drive vehicles—rotation helps balance this uneven wear.

Ford service centers use recommended patterns based on your vehicle type, tire style, and driving habits. A professional rotation can also be an opportunity for a visual inspection for damage or misalignment issues.

Inspect Tread Depth

Tread depth is a key factor in your vehicle's traction and braking ability. The minimum legal tread depth in most states is 2/32 of an inch, but Ford experts recommend replacing tires before they reach that point to maintain optimal safety.

You can check tread depth using a penny (with Lincoln’s head facing down) or a tread depth gauge. Ford dealerships often perform tread inspections as part of regular maintenance visits. If your tread is wearing unevenly, it may signal problems with alignment, suspension, or tire balance.

Balance Your Tires

Unbalanced tires can cause vibrations, uneven wear, and stress on your suspension system. Ford dealerships advise balancing tires whenever new tires are installed or if you notice vibration at certain speeds. The process involves attaching small weights to the wheel to ensure even distribution of mass.

Dealerships use advanced balancing machines that identify even minute imbalances, ensuring that your tires wear evenly and your ride remains smooth. Regular balancing helps protect your investment in tires and improves fuel efficiency.

Align Your Wheels Periodically

Wheel alignment is another critical element of tire care. Misaligned wheels cause tires to wear unevenly and can affect your vehicle’s steering and handling. Ford recommends checking your alignment every 12,000 miles or immediately if you notice symptoms like the car pulling to one side or a crooked steering wheel.

Ford service centers have alignment machines that provide precise measurements, ensuring your wheels are adjusted to the factory specifications. This not only extends tire life but also improves your overall driving experience.

Avoid Potholes and Rough Terrain

Ford dealerships caution drivers against frequently traveling on rough terrain or over potholes. While your Ford vehicle may be built tough, consistent impact from potholes or rocky surfaces can severely damage your tires, wheels, and suspension system.

If you live in an area with poor road conditions, ask your Ford technician for tire recommendations that are more resistant to wear and damage. Some tires are specifically designed for off-road or all-terrain use, and a dealership can help you choose the right fit for your driving needs.

Don’t Mix Tire Types

Mixing tire types—such as combining winter tires with all-season ones—can negatively affect your car's performance. Ford dealerships strongly advise using a matching set of tires with identical tread patterns, brands, and sizes for consistent handling and braking performance.

Inconsistencies in tire type can lead to unpredictable driving dynamics, increased wear, and even damage to your drivetrain, especially in all-wheel-drive systems. Your local Ford service department can help identify if your current set meets these standards or if it's time for a full replacement.

Replace Tires When Necessary

Even with the best care, tires eventually wear out and need replacement. Ford dealerships follow a “replace, don’t risk” philosophy. If your tire tread is too shallow, if there are sidewall cracks, or if your tires are more than six years old, it’s time to consider a replacement.

Ford technicians can assess tire health during regular maintenance checks and recommend replacements from Ford-approved brands that meet your vehicle’s specifications. Choosing the right tire ensures better traction, smoother handling, and optimal fuel efficiency.

Use Seasonal Tires When Appropriate

If you live in an area with extreme weather, using seasonal tires may be a smart investment. Ford dealerships offer winter, summer, and all-season tires to meet different climate demands.

Winter tires provide better traction on snow and ice, while summer tires offer superior grip in warm, dry conditions. Switching tires seasonally can significantly extend the life of each set and improve safety. Ford dealerships can store your off-season tires and handle the switch for you.

Consider a Tire Protection Plan

Tire repairs and replacements can be costly, especially if your tires are damaged unexpectedly. Ford dealerships offer tire protection plans that cover common issues such as flats, road hazard damage, and premature wear.

These plans can give you peace of mind knowing that your investment is protected. If you’re purchasing a new Ford vehicle or a new set of tires, ask your Ford service advisor about available tire and wheel protection packages.

Monitor for Vibration or Noise

Unusual vibrations, thumping, or humming sounds can indicate tire problems. Ford technicians are trained to diagnose these early warning signs, which might point to issues like internal tire damage, uneven wear, or problems with suspension components.

It’s important not to ignore these symptoms. Bring your vehicle to your local Ford dealership for a full inspection. Addressing problems early can save you money on future repairs and keep your ride safe and smooth.

Keep Tires Clean and Protected

Keeping your tires clean isn't just about aesthetics. Brake dust, grime, and road salt can deteriorate the rubber compound over time. Ford dealerships recommend regular cleaning using tire-safe cleaners and avoiding silicone-based tire shine products that can cause drying or cracking.

You can also apply tire protectant to help shield your tires from UV rays and extreme temperatures. Proper cleaning helps prevent sidewall damage and ensures your tires stay in top shape longer.

Conclusion

Tire care is an essential part of maintaining your Ford vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. From regular pressure checks and rotations to professional alignment and seasonal tire changes, your local Ford car dealership is your trusted partner in tire maintenance. With factory-trained technicians, advanced diagnostic tools, and a commitment to excellence, Ford dealerships ensure your tires are always road-ready. Prioritizing tire care not only improves your driving experience but also saves you money in the long run. Whether it’s time for a routine check or a full replacement, don’t hesitate to rely on Ford professionals for expert advice and service.