As the crisp air rolls into Maine and leaves start to carpet the roads, it’s time to talk tire safety. Fall isn’t just pumpkin spice season, it’s also the perfect time to check in on your vehicle’s tires before colder, slicker months arrive.
At APlus Auto Group, we know firsthand how quickly Maine weather can shift. From early morning frost to sudden rainstorms and eventual snow, your tires are your first line of defense on the road. So if you’re wondering whether it’s time to replace, rotate, or prep your tires for winter, this checklist is for you.
Why Fall Tire Maintenance Matters in Main
You might think your tires are just fine after summer driving, but autumn roads bring their own hazards. Wet leaves can be as slippery as ice, and cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop quickly. Performing a quick tire check now can help you avoid bigger issues later.
Tire Safety Checklist for Fall
- Check Your Tread Depth
Your tire’s tread helps grip the road, especially on wet or slick surfaces. Use the penny test: insert a penny headfirst into your tread. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Maine roads demand good traction, especially as temperatures dip and roads become unpredictable.
- Monitor Tire Pressure Weekly
As the temperature drops, so does your tire pressure, roughly one PSI for every 10°F decrease. Low pressure reduces traction and increases the chance of a blowout. Grab a reliable gauge.
- Look for Cracks, Bulges, or Uneven Wear
Even if your tread depth looks okay, cracks or bulges can signal it’s time for a replacement. Uneven wear may mean your wheel alignment is off or your suspension needs attention. Both of these affect safety and handling.
- Rotate Your Tires ( Yes, Really)
Regular tire rotation extends the life of your tires and ensures even wear. At APlus, we recommend rotating every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or at every oil change. This is especially important if you’re prepping for winter tires or do a lot of highway driving.
- Consider All-Weather or Winter Tires
If you’ve been riding on all-season tires, now’s the time to think ahead. All-weather tires offer better performance in changing conditions. True winter tires are built for snow and ice, which makes a big difference when driving on Maine roads later in the year.
- Balance and Align for Better Handling
Even if your tires look fine, poor alignment or unbalanced tires can lead to vibrations, pulling to one side, or reduced fuel efficiency. Getting an alignment during your fall tire check can also improve overall vehicle stability in wet or icy conditions.
- Check Your Spare
When’s the last time you looked at your spare tire? A flat spare won’t help in an emergency. Make sure it’s inflated and in good condition. If you have a tire repair kit instead of a full-size spare, check that all components are still functional.
- Inspect Valve Stems and Caps
It’s easy to overlook these, but damaged or missing valve stem caps can let moisture in and lead to corrosion. That can cause slow leaks or even total valve failure. A simple visual check can save you from a cold-weather tire problem later.
- Book a Professional Tire Inspection
Even if you’re a seasoned DIYer, a second set of eyes can catch things you might miss. At APlus Auto Group, our service team offers full tire inspections as part of our seasonal maintenance packages. Whether you need a simple rotation or a full replacement, we’ve got the tools and the experience.
10. Don’t Wait for Snow to Start Prepping
Many drivers wait until the first snow to start thinking about their tires. By then, shops are backed up and roads are already hazardous. Fall is the ideal time to beat the rush, especially if you’re switching to snow tires or need tire-related service.
Ready to Schedule Your Tire Service?
If you’re in Maine and want to make sure your vehicle is safe and ready for the colder months, visit APlus Service Center for a tire check. We offer full tire rotation, alignment, balancing, and replacement services to keep you and your family safe on the road this season.
Whether you’re commuting to work or heading north for a Maine adventure, your tires should be in top shape.