Tire Care and the Environment
Poorly Maintained Tires Waste Fuel and Contribute to Global Warming
Feb 25, 2008
Its true, good tire maintenance will save money and reduce production of greenhouse gasses through reduced fuel use and improve overall vehicle safety. Underinflated and misaligned tires reduce fuel mileage. Low tire pressure, unevenly worn tires, and inadequate tread depth are safety hazards that can cause injury or death. Improper disposal of used tires can pose public health and environmental concerns. It is easy to check tire pressure and condition, which will save money at the pumps and improve tire wear.
The California Intergrated Waste Management Board offers consumers a wealth of information about tire care, maintenance and waste management. Here are some hightlights of information available through the agency.
Tire Care Checklist - Extend tire life and improve fuel economy by using this list once a month. Avoid road hazards that could damage tires like rocks or potholes. Be aware of any change in vehicle handling that could indicate uneven tire wear.
- Check the air pressure with a tire gauge
- Measure the tire tread depth. It should be more than 1.6 millimeters (1/16 of an inch)
- Look for bald spots or signs of uneven tread wear
- Rotate tires every 10,000 kilometers (6,000 miles)
Measuring and Adjusting Tire Pressure - Tire gauges are inexpensive and easy to use. Follow this simple directions and don't be afraid ask a mechanic how to perform the task.
- Determine the correct tire pressure. It can be found on the tire sidewall, on the vehicle doorpost or in the owner's manual
- Check tire pressure while they are cold. Measure before taking a trip
- Remove the valve stem cap and press the gauge firmly onto the inflation valve
- Add air to reach the recommended pressure if the tire is low
- Remove air if tire is inflated beyond the recommended pressure. Use the tire gauge or another object to release air by depressing the pin in the center of the valve stem
- Replace the valve stem cap after adjusting the tire pressure
- Check each tire and the spare. Inspect the condition of the tires while checking their pressure. Look for leaks, nails, unevenly worn spots, bulges, separations and tread wear bars
Prevention of Tire Waste - The State of California generates more than 41 million used, waste tires each year. Some 75 percent are successfully recycled leaving 10 million in search of safe disposal or reuse. There are many things consumers can do to reduce tire waste.
- Purchase Long Life Tires - Tires with higher mileage ratings are more expensive, but safe on replacement costs in the long run if properly maintained
- Retreads - Retreaded tires are available for light truck and commercial applications. Increased demand from passenger cars with strengthen the market for these products
- Recycling - Ensure used tires are disposed of properly by the tire dealer. Most municipalities or state governments collect a fee to ensure safe tire disposal
- Use Products Made from Used Tires - Purchase products made with used tire materials like playground mats, non-skid pads, landscaping mulch, weed abatement fabric and roofing shingles
Proper tire maintenance saves money by improving fuel economy and reducing tire replacement. Reducing fuel and tire use lowers the generation of greenhouse gasses. Recycling and proper disposal of waste tires lessens environmental impacts. Learn to check tire pressure and become an eco-star!
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