Spring Tire Checkup: Essential Tips for Florida Drivers at Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair
Winter might not bring heavy snow to Sarasota, FL, but it can still have a lasting effect on your vehicle, especially your tires. The occasional cold fronts, road salt, and potholes can contribute to tire wear and hidden damage. Now that spring is here, it’s time to inspect your tires to ensure they are safe, efficient, and ready for the warmer months ahead. Here’s why checking your tires after the winter season is crucial and what to look for in Sarasota’s climate.
1. Winter Can Cause Uneven or Excessive Tire Wear
While Florida winters don’t bring snow, cooler temperatures and frequent rain can still cause uneven tire wear. Additionally, road conditions such as potholes can contribute to tire wear that reduces traction, especially if you’ve driven over rough or uneven surfaces.
What to check:
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Bald spots or uneven tread wear: These can lead to poor handling and reduced grip, making it important to inspect all four tires.
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Wear patterns: If the inside or outside edges are more worn than the middle, it could be a sign that your alignment is off.
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Cupped tires: Small dips in the tread may indicate suspension issues, which need immediate attention.
Scheduling a tire rotation or alignment check with Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair can help extend the life of your tires and ensure your safety on the road.
2. Cold Temperatures Cause Tire Pressure to Drop
Tire pressure naturally drops in colder temperatures. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tire pressure can decrease by 1–2 PSI. If you haven’t checked your tire pressure since the cooler months, you may be driving with underinflated tires, which can affect fuel efficiency, tire wear, and handling.
What to do:
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Check tire pressure with a gauge and compare it to the recommended PSI (you’ll find this information in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door sticker).
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Inflate your tires as necessary to improve handling and fuel efficiency.
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Don’t forget to check your spare tire—it could be low on air, too.
If you’re unsure about how to check or adjust your tire pressure, our experts at Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair can assist you.
3. Potholes Can Damage Tires and Wheels
Even Florida roads have their share of potholes, which can be especially hazardous after the winter season. A hard impact from a pothole can cause slow leaks, sidewall bulges, or even blowouts. This damage can sometimes be difficult to detect, so it’s important to inspect your tires after any hard hits.
Warning signs of tire damage:
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Bulging sidewalls: Indicates internal tire damage.
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Vibrations or pulling: Could mean a bent rim or alignment problem.
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Slow leaks: May not be visible, but could result in a flat tire over time.
If you’ve encountered any potholes recently, bring your vehicle into Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair for a thorough inspection to avoid future tire or suspension issues.
4. Road Salt and Debris Can Cause Tire Cracks
Although Sarasota doesn’t deal with freezing temperatures or the heavy use of road salt like northern states, road debris and the salty air near the coast can still take a toll on your tires. Over time, these factors can cause the rubber to dry out and crack, weakening the tire’s integrity.
How to check for cracks:
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Inspect the sidewalls and tread for any visible cracks.
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If the rubber appears brittle or dry, it may be time to consider new tires.
At Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair, we can evaluate the condition of your tires and advise you on whether replacements are needed.
5. Spring and Summer Bring More Rain – You Need Good Tread Depth
Florida’s spring and summer bring frequent rain, making it crucial for your tires to have sufficient tread to prevent hydroplaning. Worn-out tires with low tread depth can struggle to channel water away from the tire, increasing your risk of losing traction in wet conditions.
How to check tread depth:
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Use the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is too low, and it’s time for new tires.
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Tires should have at least 4/32” of tread for safe driving in wet weather.
If you notice that your tires are worn unevenly or have insufficient tread, it may be time for a tire rotation or even a new set of tires. Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair is happy to perform this service for you.
6. Your Tires May Need a Rotation and Alignment
Driving on poorly aligned wheels or tires that haven’t been rotated regularly can cause uneven wear and poor handling. Winter conditions and the roads in Sarasota may exacerbate this, making it essential to check both alignment and tire rotation.
What to do:
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Schedule a tire rotation to ensure even wear on all four tires.
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If your car pulls to one side or the steering feels off, it’s a sign to get an alignment check.
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If you’ve been using winter tires, now is the time to switch back to all-season or summer tires for better performance during Florida’s warm months.
Final Thoughts
Spring is the perfect time to assess the condition of your tires and ensure they are ready for the warmer, wetter months ahead. Whether it’s checking tire pressure, tread depth, or inspecting for damage, Jay and Dean’s Auto Repair in Sarasota is here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition. If you notice uneven wear, cracks, or vibrations, don’t wait—schedule a tire inspection today and ensure your safety on the roads this spring and beyond.