Keeping your tires in top condition is essential for road safety, fuel efficiency, and environmental responsibility, especially in Canada’s diverse weather conditions. These guidelines are based solely on Transport Canada and Ford Canada (Canadian site) information.

Check Tire Pressure Monthly
(Weekly in Winter)
● Cold air causes tire pressure to drop—about 1 psi (7 kPa) for every 5 °C drop in temperature.
● Check the pressure when tires are cold (vehicle hasn’t moved for at least 3 hours or driven under 2 km)
● Do not forget the spare tire

Use a Quality Pressure Gauge
● Automotive store gauges are more accurate than gas-station air pump gauges
● Verify pressure against the PSI on the driver’s door jamb or the owner’s manual

Understand the Risks of Improper Inflation
● Under-inflation increases rolling resistance, and overheating can shorten tire life (by ~15,000 km for an 8 psi drop), and increase fuel use by ~4%
● Over-inflation causes reduced grip, harsh ride, and uneven centre tread wear.

Inspect for Wear & Damage Monthly
● Look for cuts, cracks, bulges, embedded objects, and uneven wear. Replace tires if the damage is present.
● Replace tires when tread wear indicators are flush (~1.5 mm / 2/32″).

Rotate Tires Regularly
Rotating every 10,000 km helps ensure even wear, especially important for front tires on FWD vehicles.

Check Alignment & Balance
Uneven tread wear and handling issues can indicate a need for alignment or balancing, especially after hitting potholes or curbs. Canadian winters can worsen this issue, as cold temperatures naturally thicken oil. If your engine feels less responsive, don’t wait—get your oil checked.

Use Proper Winter Tires
● Winter tires maintain better traction below 7 °C and are mandatory in some Canadian regions.
● Keep tire pressure at recommended levels and recheck during cold weather
● Ensure all four wheels have matching winter tires for optimal performance