Why Your Tires Need a Checkup After Winter Driving

Why Your Tires Need a Checkup After Winter Driving

Winter can be rough on your car, and your tires take a lot of that punishment. Between freezing temps, potholes, salt, and road grime, it’s no surprise they might come out of the season in worse shape than they went in. Giving your tires a proper checkup in early spring isn’t just a good idea—it’s key to staying safe, saving fuel, and extending their life.

Check Tire Pressure After the Cold

Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop. For every 10°F the temperature falls, your tires can lose about 1 PSI. That means if you haven’t checked them in a while, you could be driving on underinflated tires—and that leads to poor handling, uneven wear, and worse fuel economy.

As temps rise, your pressure might increase again, so it’s smart to check and adjust pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended level. You can usually find this info on a sticker inside the driver’s door.

Inspect Tread Depth and Wear Patterns

Winter roads aren’t easy on tread. Snow, slush, and spinning wheels can wear your tread faster than usual. Spring is the perfect time to check if your tires still have enough grip left.

Look for:

  • Uneven wear (more worn on the inside or outside edges)
  • Low tread depth (less than 4/32” is time to start thinking about replacements)
  • Cupping or feathering, which could mean suspension or alignment problems
  • If you spot anything weird, it’s a good idea to have a tire shop take a closer look.

Look for Cracks, Bubbles, and Damage

Hitting potholes or curbs—common in winter—can damage the sidewalls or belts inside your tires. Check each tire for:

  • Visible bubbles or bulges
  • Cracks in the rubber
  • Objects like nails or screws
  • Even small damage can lead to a blowout down the line, especially as roads heat up in summer.

Rotate and Align for a Smooth Ride

Tire rotation helps make sure all four tires wear evenly, and spring is a great time to get it done. If your steering feels off or the car pulls to one side, it might be time for an alignment check too.

Final Thoughts

Your tires work hard all winter—don’t head into spring without giving them a proper once-over. A quick check can help you catch problems early, keep your drive smooth, and even save money at the gas pump. If you’re not sure what to look for, stop by your local auto repair shop for a tire inspection and peace of mind.

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