Back-to-School Safety: Checking Your Tires Before Carpool Season

As the back-to-school season kicks into high gear, many families are preparing for hectic schedules, early morning drop-offs, and after-school activities. Whether you're driving your kids, carpooling with neighbors, or sending a teen driver off on their own, one thing should be at the top of your checklist: tire safety.

At Gateway Tires, we know how important it is to keep your vehicle road-ready and your loved ones safe. Here's what you need to know about making sure your tires are ready for the school year ahead.

🚗 Why Tire Safety Matters for Back-to-School Season

When you’re juggling multiple drop-offs, work commutes, and weekend errands, your tires take on a lot of mileage. Worn or underinflated tires can:

• Decrease fuel efficiency

• Lead to uneven braking

• Increase the risk of blowouts

• Reduce traction in wet or slick conditions

Taking just 10 minutes to check your tires can help avoid serious safety issues and costly repairs down the road.

✅ 5 Quick Tire Safety Checks Every Parent Should Do

1. Tread Depth: Use the penny test: Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see all of his head, it's time for new tires.

2. Tire Pressure: Check your owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver-side door for the recommended PSI. Driving on underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to faster wear and lower gas mileage.

3. Visual Inspection: Look for visible damage—cracks, bulges, or embedded objects. These are signs your tire may fail soon.

4. Even Wear: Uneven tread can indicate issues with alignment, suspension, or the need for rotation. Let us take a look if one tire looks more worn than the others.

5. Spare Tire Check: Don’t forget your spare! Make sure it’s properly inflated and in usable condition in case of emergencies.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Teen Driver Tip: Start Them with Tire Basics

If your teen is getting behind the wheel this school year, teach them the basics of tire safety. Knowing how to check tire pressure and identify early signs of wear is an essential skill—and gives you peace of mind.

📍 Visit Gateway Tires for a Free Back-to-School Tire Check

We’re here to help your family ride safely into the new school year. Stop by Gateway Tires in [your city or neighborhood name] for a free tire inspection and let us help you stay one step ahead of tire trouble.

👉 Schedule your appointment today or give us a call at 951-544-0250.