As summer begins to wind down in Cypress, TX, it’s the perfect time to start preparing your vehicle for the changing seasons. Fall weather can bring sudden rain, dropping temperatures, and slick roads—especially after the intense heat of a Texas summer. Your tires are your car’s only point of contact with the road, and if they aren’t in top shape, your safety is at risk.
At Skeeter’s Auto Repair, we believe that preparing your tires for fall is one of the most important steps you can take to stay safe behind the wheel. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to check, how often to inspect, and when to seek help from our expert technicians.
Why Fall Weather Affects Tire Performance
In Texas, temperatures can change quickly between seasons. As the weather cools down in fall:
- Tire pressure drops—cooler air contracts, reducing PSI
- Wet roads return—with increased chances of hydroplaning
- Rubber hardens—causing reduced traction if tires are worn
Making sure your tires are properly inflated, rotated, and in good shape can significantly improve braking, steering, and handling when conditions change.
5 Tire Maintenance Tips to Prepare for Fall
1. Check Tire Tread Depth
Your tire tread is critical for gripping the road, especially on wet surfaces. Use the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low, and the tires should be replaced.
At Skeeter’s, we can measure your tread with professional tools and let you know how much life your tires have left.
2. Monitor Tire Pressure Weekly
Tire pressure drops about 1 PSI for every 10°F decrease in temperature. Underinflated tires wear out faster and can make your car harder to control. Always check pressure when tires are cold, and inflate to your vehicle’s recommended PSI (found in the driver-side door jamb).
3. Inspect for Cracks, Bulges, and Uneven Wear
Look for any signs of sidewall damage or abnormal tread wear. Cracks can form after long exposure to summer heat, and bulges may mean the tire’s internal structure is compromised. If you notice anything unusual, come see us right away.
4. Rotate Your Tires
After a long summer of driving, uneven tire wear is common. Rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles ensures even wear and extends the life of your tires.
5. Get a Wheel Alignment Check
If your car pulls to one side or you notice uneven tread, your alignment may be off. A fall alignment check helps ensure your vehicle handles safely during the rainy season and prevents premature tire wear.
Common Questions About Preparing Tires for Fall
Q: Do I need new tires just because fall is coming?
A: Not necessarily. But if your tread is low, your tires are damaged, or they’re older than six years, it may be time to replace them—especially before wet conditions return.
Q: How do I know if my tires are too old?
A: You can check the DOT number on the sidewall. The last four digits represent the week and year the tire was made (e.g., 2119 = 21st week of 2019). Most tires should be replaced at the 6–10 year mark, even if the tread looks okay.
Q: Should I get an alignment with my fall tire check?
A: It’s a good idea. Misalignment can cause poor handling and uneven wear—problems that get worse in slippery fall conditions.
Q: How long does a tire inspection take?
A: At Skeeter’s Auto Repair, a full tire inspection typically takes less than 30 minutes.
Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall at Skeeter’s Auto Repair
Don’t wait until the first cold snap or rainy morning to realize your tires aren’t ready. At Skeeter’s Auto Repair in Cypress, TX, our certified technicians provide expert tire inspections, rotations, pressure checks, and alignments. We’ll help you get ahead of the season and drive confidently no matter the weather.
Schedule your fall tire check at Skeeter’s Auto Repair today and make sure your vehicle is ready for whatever autumn brings.