As the weather cools and winter approaches, ensuring that your tires are prepared for seasonal changes is essential for safe and reliable driving. While Hendersonville, NC, doesn’t typically experience extreme winter conditions, the occasional snowfall and fluctuating temperatures still call for focused tire care. At Kanuga Tire & Auto in Hendersonville, NC, we specialize in helping our customers maintain their tires year-round, particularly during the transition into fall and winter. Let’s explore why seasonal tire maintenance and proper tire pressure are important for safety, efficiency, and long-term tire health.
Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop naturally—approximately 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10 degrees the temperature falls. This change can lead to under-inflation, which affects handling, traction, and fuel efficiency. As temperatures in Hendersonville fluctuate in fall and winter, it’s essential to monitor and adjust tire pressure to keep your vehicle performing its best.
While Hendersonville receives a modest amount of snow—typically 8 to 12 inches annually—ensuring your tires have adequate tread depth is still vital. Fall and winter bring increased chances of wet roads, light snow, and ice patches, all of which require solid traction for safe driving. A tread depth of at least 4/32 inches is recommended to maintain optimal grip on wet or slick surfaces.
In colder months, check your tire pressure at least once a month. Low tire pressure not only affects your ability to control your vehicle but can also lead to premature tire wear. Use a tire pressure gauge to confirm each tire is at the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, which can be found in your vehicle’s manual or on the inside of the driver’s door.
At Kanuga Tire & Auto, we can quickly check and adjust your tire pressure, ensuring your tires are properly inflated and safe for winter conditions.
Adequate tread depth is critical for effective traction on slippery or snowy surfaces. Tread that is too worn reduces your tires’ ability to grip the road, increasing the risk of slipping or skidding. The “penny test” is an easy way to check your tread depth at home—place a penny upside down in the tread; if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
Our technicians at Kanuga Tire & Auto provide thorough tread inspections and can recommend replacement options if needed to ensure your tires are ready for the challenges of fall and winter.
Tire rotation is essential for maintaining even wear, which extends tire life and improves handling. In typical conditions, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Regular rotations prevent uneven tread wear, which enhances stability and traction on wet or icy roads.
At Kanuga Tire & Auto, we offer tire rotation services to ensure your tires wear evenly and perform at their best throughout the changing seasons.
For most drivers in Hendersonville, all-season tires are suitable for winter conditions, as they offer a good balance of performance in cold and wet weather. However, if you frequently drive in higher-elevation areas or plan trips to places with more severe winter weather, winter tires might offer extra safety and peace of mind.
Our team can help you choose the best tire option based on your driving habits and winter needs, ensuring you’re prepared for any weather conditions fall and winter might bring.
Cold weather can exacerbate any existing tire damage, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. Inspect your tires for visible signs of wear or damage, especially before winter fully sets in. Cracked or damaged tires are more likely to fail in low temperatures, which can leave you stranded in undesirable conditions.
If you notice any damage, stop by Kanuga Tire & Auto for a professional inspection and repair or replacement if necessary.
Fall and winter in Hendersonville bring rain, occasional snow, and patches of ice, which can all create challenging driving conditions. Proper tire maintenance helps ensure your tires have adequate traction, reducing the likelihood of accidents on slick roads.
Under-inflated tires create extra rolling resistance, which requires your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Maintaining the correct tire pressure improves fuel efficiency and saves you money at the pump.
Regular tire maintenance, including pressure checks, rotations, and tread inspections, extends the lifespan of your tires. This helps prevent premature replacements and ensures you get the most out of your tire investment.
In addition to tire care, other areas of vehicle maintenance become more critical as temperatures drop. Here are a few more tips to consider:
At Kanuga Tire & Auto, we’re proud to offer comprehensive tire maintenance for our Hendersonville community. From tire pressure adjustments to full inspections and rotations, our expert technicians are here to keep your vehicle safe and prepared for the colder months. Every service visit includes a complimentary digital health report that details the condition of your vehicle, so you can make informed maintenance decisions with confidence.
Located at 432 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, NC, our shop is your trusted partner for tire care, helping you drive safely through every season.
When it comes to seasonal maintenance, Kanuga Tire & Auto in Hendersonville, NC has you covered. Our team is ready to help you prepare for fall and winter with expert tire care, tire rotations, pressure checks, and inspections. We’re committed to keeping you and your family safe on the road, whether you’re driving locally or planning a holiday road trip.
Visit our shop at 432 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville, NC, or call us at (828) 697-2860. You can also schedule your auto repair appointment online at www.kanugatire.com.
