Tips and Tricks for Extending the Life of Your Tires
At GM, we don't just want to sell you new tires and replace the worn ones you have. We want to help you get the most out of every tire investment you make with us. A new set of tires can be expensive, and we want to help your tire investment last as long as possible and keep you, and your family, safe. Let us tell you more about some of the services we recommend that can help extend tire health, then trust our certified technicians to help with the process.
Wheel Alignment
When a vehicle's wheels are misaligned, it can cause the tires to wear unevenly. There can also be noticeable performance issues behind the wheel, including handling problems, pulling, or vibrating. But getting your wheels serviced by a GM professional technician, and always maintaining proper wheel alignment, can ensure even wear and tear and prolong tire life.
If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side or the other, or if there's a vibrating feeling when you're driving on a smooth road, consider getting an alignment check. An out-of-balance tire can affect the life of your tire, as well as other essential parts, including your suspension, shocks, and bearings. Schedule an appointment with a GM tire professional to stay on top of your wheel alignment and extended your tire life.
Tire Rotation
One of the easiest and most essential things you can do to protect your tire health is a regular, routine tire rotation. Tire rotations performed at regular intervals help improve performance, prolong tire life, and achieve uniform wear and tear for all tires.
Tire rotations should be performed every few thousand miles, around every 7,500 miles, and can easily be done when you're getting your oil changed. Every tire performs a different function depending on where it is on the car and rotating them to different positions can help each wear the same way. Trust our GM technicians to expertly perform all tire rotations and to follow a proper, manufacturer recommended, rotating pattern.
Tire Pressure
A tire that is underinflated or overinflated will also wear unevenly. Every tire comes with a manufacturer recommendation for proper inflation and keeping this recommended tire pressure is essential to maintenance.
External factors can affect your tire pressure, too. Weather conditions, including extremely cold temperatures, can play a major role in your tire pressure. We recommend you check your tire pressure often during colder months.
Properly inflated tires do more than help your tire health, too. Tire pressure can also affect ride comfort, vehicle fuel consumption and efficiency, stopping distance, cornering, and more.
Tire FAQs
How do I know if I need new tires?
You'll need new tires if your tread depth is nearing 2/32", the sidewalls are cracking or bulging, wear bars are flush with the tread, vibrations and shaking, there is frequent air loss, or if your tires are older than 6 years.
How often should I rotate my tires?
It is highly recommended to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Your owner's manual will provide the best guidance for your specific GMC.
What's the right tire pressure for my vehicle?
Your vehicle's recommended tire pressure is located on a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb - not on the tire itself. This sticker lists the correct PSI for your specific vehicle, which may differ from front to rear tires. If you can't find it or aren't sure, just ask us next time you're in and we'll check it for you.
Do you offer tire installation, balancing, and disposal of old tires?
Yes! When you purchase new tires with us, installation, balancing, and old tire disposal are all included, so you can drive off with everything taken care of.
Can I get a flat repaired instead of replaced?
Yes, if the puncture is in a repairable location, typically the tread area, away from the sidewall, we can patch or repair it instead of replacing the tire. If the damage is in the sidewall or too severe, a repair isn't safe, and we'll recommend replacement instead.
How long does tire installation take?
Installing a full set of four tires typically takes about an hour, though it can vary depending on your vehicle and whether other services (like an alignment) are needed. We recommend scheduling ahead so we can have your tires ready and get you in and out as quickly as possible.