Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why should I install two new tires on the rear axle of my front-wheel-drive vehicle?

A: Because a vehicle with brand-new tires on the front axle and worn tires on the rear has a greater tendency to lose control when turning in wet or slippery conditions. While the new tires on the front may “hug the turn,” the worn tires on the rear may slide out and “fishtail.” This condition is known as over-steer, and it has been known to cause serious and fatal accidents on front-wheel-drive vehicles with two new tires on the front axle and two worn tires on the rear.


Q: Can I install two snow tires on the front axle without installing them on the rear?

A: No. If winter/snow tires are installed on the front axle of any vehicle, they must also be installed on the rear. The difference in traction qualities may result in adverse handling characteristics, which can lead to loss of vehicle control. Therefore, in order to maintain performance and stability, winter/snow tires must be installed on all four wheel positions on front-wheeldrive vehicles.


Q: How often should I check the air in my tires?

A: Tire inflation pressure should be checked at least once a month when the tires are cold or have sat for at least three hours.


Q: Why should I pay extra to properly repair a flat tire when plugging is so much cheaper?

A: Unless you have x-ray vision, any damage on the inside of the tire cannot be detected when plugging the tire on the rim. By removing the tire from the rim, inspecting the interior, and repairing the damage with a plug/patch combination, the integrity of the tire can be restored.


Q: Why should I bring my car back to check the lug nuts for proper torque?

A: Everyone knows the problems associated with loose lug nuts, but over-tightening the lug nuts can be just as dangerous. A simple torque check shortly after a tire rotation or installation can identify a damaged stud or lug nut.


Q: Why should I follow the size, load index, and speed rating on the placard when I select replacement tires?

A: Every new vehicle is engineered to deliver maximum performance. The tire specifications on the placard are directly tied to the suspension and braking system on the vehicle. If a different size or lower speed rating than the one indicated on the placard is used when the original tires are replaced, the responsiveness and handling of the vehicle may be affected. If the load index on the replacement tire is lower than the one on the placard, the tire may not be able to carry the maximum weight of the vehicle.