Tire maintenance can be as simple as regularly and accurately checking the tire's pressure and tread amount.

An under-inflated tire will not be as quick as a properly inflated tire and will lose performance and safety benefits.

Overinflated tires lose a lot of traction because the whole tire is not in contact with the road. They are also more prone to damage.

A well-inflated tire will undergo minor wear, as the car's weight gets equally distributed on the tire, unlike an over-inflated tire.

The vehicle will get more mileage from a well-inflated tire.

Most importantly, well-inflated tires are much safer and less likely to fail at high speeds.

Checking tire pressure is essential to vehicle maintenance, as proper tire pressure can improve fuel efficiency, handling, and longevity. Here's how drivers can check their tire pressure and the different methods available:

• Use a tire pressure gauge: A tire pressure gauge is a small handheld device that can measure tire pressure. First, remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem to use a tire pressure gauge. Press the tire pressure gauge onto the valve stem to release air, then read the gauge's pressure. If the pressure is too low, add air until the pressure is within the recommended range. If the pressure is too high, release air until the pressure is within the recommended range. Repeat for all four tires.
• Use a digital tire pressure gauge: A digital tire pressure gauge works similarly to a standard but displays the pressure on a digital screen. Digital tire pressure gauges are often more accurate and easier to read than traditional gauges.
• Use a tire pressure monitoring system: Many modern vehicles have factory-fitted tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS), which alert the driver when tire pressure is low. TPMS systems use sensors inside the tires to measure tire pressure and display the pressure on the vehicle's dashboard.

It's important to check tire pressure regularly, at least once a month or before a long trip, to ensure the tires have proper pressure. To determine the appropriate tire pressure for your vehicle, please check the owner's manual or a sticker on the driver's side door jamb.

Please DO NOT compare it to the PSI on your tire's sidewall.

In addition to checking tire pressure, drivers should inspect the tires for signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. Proper tire maintenance can help prevent accidents and promote responsible driving in Ontario.