Presented by AutoXcel and its Dynamic Wheel Max Tire and Wheel
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, we often focus on regular oil changes, brake inspections, and engine tune-ups. However, one critical component that deserves more attention is tire care – the only part of the vehicle that actually touches the road. As it turns out, where you drive matters just as much as how you drive when it comes to tire longevity.
Infrastructure Deterioration: The States with the Worst Roads
According to the 2023 report from Construction Coverage, several states have particularly problematic road conditions, creating a perfect storm for accelerated tire wear:
Rhode Island: Leading the nation with a staggering 49.7% of urban roads in poor condition, making it the state with the worst road infrastructure in the country.
California: Despite being one of the wealthiest states, 44.8% of California's urban roads are in poor condition.
New Jersey: The Garden State struggles with 42.4% of urban roads in poor condition.
Massachusetts: 40.7% of urban roads are failing throughout the state.
Hawaii: Paradise comes with a price – 39.8% of urban roads are in poor condition.
Connecticut: Once the worst, Connecticut is still troubled with 37.9% of urban roads in poor condition.
How Poor Roads Impact Tires
The relationship between road quality and tire wear is straightforward but often overlooked. Here's how bad roads take their toll:
1. Accelerated Tread Wear
Rough, uneven surfaces create greater friction against tires. Instead of rolling smoothly, tires must constantly adapt to varying surfaces, causing irregular and accelerated tread wear. According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association, driving regularly on poor roads can reduce tire lifespan by up to 25%.
2. Increased Risk of Punctures and Blowouts
Potholes, cracks, and debris on poorly maintained roads dramatically increase the risk of tire damage. The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that pothole damage alone costs U.S. drivers approximately $3 billion annually in repair costs.
3. Alignment Issues
Repeatedly hitting potholes and road irregularities can knock your vehicle's wheels out of alignment. Misaligned wheels cause tires to wear unevenly and prematurely, creating a costly domino effect of vehicle maintenance issues.
Other Factors Affecting Tire Wear
While road conditions play a major role, several other geographic and environmental factors contribute to tire degradation:
Climate Considerations
Extreme Heat: States with consistently high temperatures like Arizona, Nevada, and Texas experience accelerated tire wear due to hot pavement. Heat breaks down rubber compounds more quickly, reducing overall tire life.
Coastal Exposure: Coastal states face the additional challenge of salt exposure, which can corrode wheels, affect tire performance, and lead to rapid tire rot typically evidenced in the thin cracks in sidewalls.
UV Damage: Regions with high sun exposure subject tires to more UV radiation, which degrades rubber compounds over time.
Winter Weather Challenges
Snowbelt States: Places like Minnesota, Michigan, and New York face distinct challenges from cold temperatures, ice, and snow.
Salt and Chemical Treatments: The very chemicals used to keep winter roads safe accelerate tire wear and wheel corrosion.
Temperature Fluctuations: Freeze-thaw cycles create potholes and road damage that persist year-round.
Smart Tire Tips Regardless of Geography
Despite these challenging conditions, there are steps drivers can take to maximize tire life:
Maintain Proper Inflation: Check tire pressure monthly, as proper inflation is the single most effective way to extend tire life.
Regular Rotation: Rotate tires every 5,000-7,000 miles to ensure even wear patterns.
Alignment Checks: Have the alignment checked after hitting significant potholes or at least annually.
Quality Matters: Invest in tires designed for specific driving conditions – all-season, performance, or winter tires as appropriate.
Drive Defensively: Be aware of road hazards and avoid potholes when safe to do so.
Tire & Wheel Coverage: Investing in a tire & wheel program protects drivers from the pitfalls of the road and unwanted repair and replacement expenses.
According to research from TRIP, a national transportation research nonprofit, the average driver in states with the poorest roads spends an additional $500-$700 annually on vehicle maintenance related to road conditions.
Conclusion
While we can't control the quality of the roads we drive on, understanding how they affect our vehicles empowers us to take preventative measures. By being aware of road conditions and taking steps to protect tires, drivers can save money, ensure safety, and extend the life of one of their vehicle's most important components.
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Tire & Wheel Coverage from AutoXcel
AutoXcel began its Tire & Wheel protection programs in 2009 and has a stellar history in this segment. The most comprehensive program is Dynamic Wheel Max which provides long-term coverage of tire and wheels, without deductibles. Roadside assistance is included. Dynamic Wheel Max Exotics provides the same great tire and wheel coverage on high-end vehicles. If a dealer wants just tire coverage or just wheel coverage, then AutoXcel provides Dynamic Tire, which offers complete coverage for tires, and Dynamic Wheel, which provides cosmetic protection for wheels.
To learn more about AutoXcel’s suite of Tire & Wheel offerings, please contact us!
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