Vernon, BC - Tuesday, May 18, 2021
Kal Tire reminds drivers of vehicle maintenance after a period of reduced use
With warmer weather and the potential for reduced COVID-19 restrictions on the horizon, many Canadian drivers will be looking to hit the open road and safely explore their regions. For many drivers, that means getting back into a vehicle that’s been sitting idle save for short trips for essentials. To help ensure drivers enjoy safe travels this spring, Kal Tire is sharing simple but important maintenance tips not be missed.
“Now that drivers are likely going to be heading out on road trips again, we want to help ensure their vehicles are safe and highway ready,” says Mike Butcher, regional director for urban retail stores, Kal Tire. “When vehicles go long periods of not being driven or missing some of those seasonal inspection points—especially after winter—there’s a risk that critical components haven’t had the attention they need.”
A handful of simple preventative maintenance steps help improve the performance, lifespan and safety of a vehicle’s most important parts. To help drivers keep their tires and vehicle performing at their best, Kal Tire is sharing some spring maintenance steps and ‘How to’ resources:
Tire Wear and Tire Pressure
At spring changeover, winter tires coming off or all-weather tires staying on, should be inspected for tread depth, inflation, cracking, sidewall bruising and unusual wear, which can be an indication of suspension problems caused by pothole.
| Video: How to check tread depth | Article: Are your summer tires worn out? |
| Video: How to check tire pressure
Video: How often to rotate tires |
Article: How to check tire pressure: a 5-step guide |
Brakes
A maintenance inspection can help uncover worn brake components so they can be replaced before costly damage occurs. Some signs for worn brakes include a soft brake pedal, vibrations, a squealing metal-on-metal sound, feeling a pull to the left or right, or hydraulic failure.
| Article: 6 signs you need new brakes? |
Alignment
Alignment problems caused by potholes can lead to unpleasant and potentially unsafe complications such as vibrations, poor steering and premature or irregular tread wear.
If you notice that your vehicle is ‘pulling’ to one side while driving, it’s usually an indication that your vehicle is misaligned. This can increase the cost of operating your vehicle because you will have to replace your tires more frequently and can also affect safety.
| Article: Do you need a wheel alignment |
Suspension
When a vehicle drives over a pothole, the initial force on the tire is transferred to the components of the suspension system (springs, shock absorbers, linkages, etc.). Repeated jolts caused by potholes accelerate wear and tear of your suspension, while decreasing its performance.
| Article: How can potholes damage your vehicle and tires? | Article: Why does my front end shimmy after hitting a bump? |
Batteries
For a vehicle battery to retain a sufficient charge, it needs to operate regularly. If a vehicle sits unused for extended periods, it may not be able to retain a sufficient charge to dependably power vehicle systems. It’s a good idea to get a vehicle’s battery tested if it seems sluggish when starting, or if other electrical issues are evident.
| Article: 6 Tips to help your car battery last longer |
Wiper Blades
Wiper blades work hard in the winter, and the rubber is often worn by spring, just in time for frequent rain. More than 90 per cent of your driving decisions are based on what you see, so visibility is critical. If you notice streaking, splitting, skipping, scraping or squeaking, it’s time to replace your wiper blades.
| Article: When should you replace your wiper blades |
