Got a Tire Question?

A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is an electronic system that monitors the air pressure inside a tire. The TPMS indicator light on the dashboard warns motorists that at least one of the tires on the vehicle needs attention because the air pressure is too low.

Starting with the 2008 model year, all new passenger cars, SUVs and light trucks under 10,000 pounds must have a tire pressure monitoring system. If your vehicle is model year 2008 or later, it has TPMS. Certain models had TPMS before 2008, so older vehicles may or may not have it.

Check your owner's manual and watch the dashboard indicator lights when the ignition is turned to the "on" position. The standard low-tire-pressure icon is a yellow cross-section of a tire that resembles a horseshoe with an exclamation point in the middle. Some vehicles may display the yellow letters "TPMS" or show individual tire pressures on the instrument panel.

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Check the tire information placard on the driver's door or door jamb and use the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure. Do not simply inflate to the pressure molded on the tire sidewall.

Check tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Check when the tires are cold for the most useful reading.

The TPMS warning usually means at least one tire is significantly underinflated. Check all tire pressures and have the tire or system inspected if the warning remains.

Air pressure changes with temperature. Cold weather can lower measured tire pressure, which is why seasonal pressure checks matter.

Underinflation can increase tire flex and heat, contribute to irregular wear and affect handling. A significantly low tire should be corrected and inspected for the cause of pressure loss.

Tires have tread wear indicators that are 2/32 inch high. When the surrounding tread is even with the bars, the tire has reached the minimum tread depth. TIA guidance notes wet stopping ability can begin declining before that point.

A tread-depth gauge gives the clearest measurement. You can also locate the wear bars molded into the major tread grooves and compare their height with the surrounding tread.

Tread helps maintain traction and move water away from the tire's contact area. As tread gets shallower, wet- and snow-covered-road performance can decline.

Inflation, alignment, vehicle components and rotation history can all contribute to irregular wear. Have unusual wear inspected rather than assuming it is normal.

Reduce speed smoothly, avoid sudden steering or braking and move to a safe location away from traffic if possible. Continuing to drive normally on a flat can cause additional damage.

Maintain control, avoid abrupt braking or steering, reduce speed smoothly and move away from traffic when it is safe to do so.

Tire failures can have multiple causes. TIA consumer guidance highlights excessive heat from underinflation and damage from road hazards among important risks.

Sometimes. A proper repair requires the tire to be removed from the wheel so the inside can be inspected. The injury must also be in an area and of a type that is considered repairable.

Shoulder and sidewall areas flex heavily in service. TIA guidance does not consider injuries in these areas appropriate for a permanent repair.

Unless the tire and vehicle are specifically designed for limited run-flat operation, continuing to drive on a flat can quickly damage the tire and possibly the wheel.

Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. TIA consumer guidance recommends regular rotation to help equalize tread wear and maximize tire life.

Rotation moves tires to different positions on the vehicle so wear is distributed more evenly.

Alignment concerns the angles of the wheels relative to the vehicle and road. Correct alignment can support predictable handling and more even tire wear.

Look at tread depth, exposed material, bulges, irregular wear and other damage. When something looks abnormal, have the tire inspected by a professional.

A post-service torque check can help confirm that the wheel fasteners remain properly secured and can reveal a potential stud or fastener issue.

When only two tires are replaced, deeper tread on the rear axle helps maintain rear-vehicle stability in wet or slippery conditions.

A size such as P225/60R18 communicates tire type, approximate width, aspect ratio, radial construction and wheel diameter. Other sidewall markings identify performance and manufacturing information.

Look for the DOT Tire Identification Number. The date portion identifies the week and year the tire was manufactured.

Start with the tire information placard and owner's manual for the specifications intended for your vehicle. A qualified tire professional can help with fitment questions.

Mixing tires can affect vehicle behavior. Follow the vehicle and tire manufacturers' recommendations and consult a tire professional when replacing less than a complete set.

Winter tires are designed for cold temperatures and winter conditions. Whether they are appropriate depends on your climate, driving conditions and vehicle requirements.

These categories are designed around different operating conditions. Winter tires are specifically engineered for cold-weather performance; always use the tire type appropriate for your vehicle and driving environment.

EVs can place different demands on tires because of factors such as vehicle weight and torque. Use tires that meet the specifications established for the vehicle.