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How to Prevent Tire Dry Rot: A Complete Guide

Tire dry rot

With nearly 11,000 tire-related accidents occurring each year, drivers have to be more vigilant about monitoring the condition of their tires and maintaining them. One of the best ways to keep your tires in good condition is by preventing tire dry rot from occurring. When left unchecked, tire dry rot can increase your risk of a tire blowout and threaten your safety while you’re out on the road. If you want to protect yourself and other drivers, take a moment to learn how to prevent tire dry rot.

What Is Tire Dry Rot?

Also called sidewall weathering, tire dry rot occurs when the rubber of your tire begins to degrade. As the rubber degrades, cracks will form in the sidewall and tread, the tire’s color will fade, and your tire may struggle to maintain the correct amount of pressure. Since tire dry rot makes it easier for holes to develop in a tire and raises the risk of a blowout, you shouldn’t drive on any tires that are showing signs of dry rot damage. 

How to Prevent Tire Dry Rot

Whether you want to know how to prevent trailer tires from dry rotting or just protect your car’s four tires, you can do so by following a few simple tips. As you try to stop tire dry rot from destroying your tires prematurely, review our top five tips for preventing tire dry rot below:

1. Pay Attention to Your Tires’ PSI

One of the simplest ways to prevent dry rot is to keep your tires properly inflated. If your tire doesn’t have enough pressure, it will create more heat and friction while you drive. This heat and friction can make your tread more brittle and cause cracking. 

While many drivers put off refilling their tires until the tire pressure symbol pops up on their dashboard, you should be more proactive to prevent dry rot. Regularly check your tires to catch issues before your sensors do, and if your inspection shows that the tire’s PSI is under its optimal pressure, refill them as soon as possible.

2. Don’t Expose Your Tires to Direct Sunlight

If you regularly park your car directly in sunlight, the heat from the sun can hurt your tire’s rubber and cause the sidewall to break down prematurely. To prevent the sun from hurting your tires, you can use tire covers to stop the sun’s rays from reaching them. In general, however, keeping your vehicle in an indoor garage is the best way to protect your tires from the sun and other elements, but if you don’t have a garage, tire covers are your next best option.

3. Avoiding Corrosive Chemicals When Cleaning

When you’re cleaning your vehicle’s tires, avoid using cleaning supplies with corrosive chemicals. While these chemicals might make cleaning a bit easier, they can cause your tires’ rubber to degrade faster. Regardless of the cleaner you use, make sure it isn’t petroleum-based, as it can harm your tire’s anti-weathering defenses and speed up dry rot.

Since chemical-based cleaners can damage tires, water-based solutions tend to be the best choice. Try to clean your car’s tires at least once a month with your water-based cleaner, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions about how to properly apply the cleaner. 

Does Tire Shine Prevent Dry Rot?

After you clean your vehicle, you might consider putting a tire dressing on it to enhance its appearance. While some tire shines can prevent dry rot, many are solvent-based. When a solvent-based tire dressing is applied to a tire, it can make the sidewall dry out, leading to cracks and tire rot.  

Since solvent-based tire dressings can actually cause tire rot, the best tire dressing to prevent dry rot will be water-based. A water-based tire dressing with UV protection should protect your tires from the sun and your sidewalls from cracks, fading, and hardening. 

4. Don’t Leave Your Car Stationary for Too Long

Even if you park your vehicle indoors or out of the sun, you shouldn’t let it sit in the same place over extended periods. When a car sits in the same position for too long, the portion of its tires that are touching the ground can become rigid, and the weight of the vehicle can cause the tires to deflate. 

Since both of these issues can lead to tire rot, you’ll want to repark your vehicle every week to make sure one section of the tire doesn’t bear the brunt of your vehicle’s weight for months. If you really don’t ever drive your vehicle, you can also use a jack stand to lift your vehicle off the ground. Doing so redistributes the vehicle’s weight to the jack stand rather than the wheels.

5. Pay Attention to Your Tires’ Age, Load Capacity, and Routine Maintenance

Over time, all tires degrade and will need to be replaced. Even if you follow the other tips on this list, an older tire may still start to show signs of tire dry rot. Typically, tires need to be replaced every six to ten years, so checking the manufacturing date on the tire can help you know when your tire is more at risk of tire rot. If your tires are past the six-year mark, you’ll likely need to replace them. 

Besides paying attention to the age of your tires, you should look at their load capacity. If you exceed your tires’ load limit by overloading your vehicle or transporting something heavy, the tires are more likely to degrade faster and experience dry rot. In addition to checking the tires, having your tires inspected and rotated annually can help you stop dry rot from beginning prematurely.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tire Replacement Services in the NC Triangle

If your tires have dry rotted and you need tire replacement services in Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. When you suspect dry rot is affecting your tires, our mechanics can inspect them and provide a diagnosis. If possible, we’ll repair the tire, but if it can’t be fixed, our tire finder tool makes finding a new set of tires easy. We can also help you pick the right tires for your needs and replace your old tires with them. 

Learn more about our tire repair and replacement services today. If you’re ready to bring your vehicle in, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save. 

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EV vs Hybrid: How They Compare on Emissions, Power, & Repair Costs

EV cars and hybrids comparison

If you want to reduce your impact on the environment while driving, electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids are great options. Both produce less emissions than standard vehicles that only use gas, but they do have differences that affect each option’s emissions, power, repair costs, and purchase price. As you try to decide whether an EV or hybrid is right for you, take a moment to review how their environmental impact, cost, and performance compare. 

What Is the Difference Between Hybrids and EVs?

EVs do not have an internal combustion engine (ICE) and rely on high-capacity batteries to power the vehicle. In contrast, all hybrids have an ICE alongside the ability to run on electricity. 

Standard hybrids are powered by an ICE and at least one electric motor. The electric motor uses energy stored in a small battery pack that’s recharged by the hybrid’s regenerative brakes. Typically, the electric motor can power the vehicle at lower speeds (up to around 30mph) while the ICE takes over at higher speeds.

You can also find plug-in hybrids that use an ICE, an electric motor, and a larger battery to power them. These hybrids need to be charged, unlike standard hybrids, but they have a longer range for electric-only driving (usually between 20 and 40 miles). 

Breaking Down How Hybrids and EVs Compare 

Due to their different designs, hybrids and EVs each have pros and cons regarding costs, emissions, and power. Before you purchase an EV or a hybrid, take a moment to see how they compare below:

1. EV vs.Hybrid Cost

Typically, hybrid vehicles are less expensive compared to EVs. For example, hybrids tend to cost between $25,000 and $35,000, while EVs often start in the mid $30,000s, with some EVs, like Teslas, starting at more than $60,000. The primary reason for the higher costs of EVs is due to the price of the more powerful batteries EVs require.

While the cost of EVs tends to be higher than hybrids, EVs do tend to have more incentives and rebates available to them. With the federal EV tax credit, EV owners can save up to $7,500 when purchasing a new EV, and many states offer rebates for new EV purchases. Additionally, you may be able to find some rebates for plug-in hybrid vehicles, but for most regular hybrids, you won’t be able to receive any rebates.

2. EV vs. Hybrid Emissions

Since EVs don’t have an internal combustion engine like hybrids, they don’t produce any tailpipe emissions, but the electricity used to charge them does generate emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2). Despite the emissions from charging, they still produce less emissions than hybrids or standard ICE vehicles.

For example, a 2019 study from MIT found that ICE vehicles produce 350 grams of CO2 per mile, while plug-in hybrids and standard hybrids produce around 260 grams of CO2 per mile. EVs produce even less emissions, with the study finding they generate 200 grams of CO2 per mile. 

A more recent report from the U.S. Department of Energy backs up these findings that EVs produce fewer emissions. Based on the Department of Energy’s estimates for average annual emissions, EVs produce 2,727 pounds of CO2, plug-in hybrids produce 4,763 pounds of CO2, standard hybrids produce 6,898 pounds of CO2, and gasoline vehicles produce 12,594 pounds of CO2. So, even when taking charging into account, EVs should produce fewer emissions than hybrids.

3. EV vs. Hybrid Carbon Footprint

While EVs produce less emissions, some auto manufacturers believe they can reduce more carbon by manufacturing hybrids instead of EVs. The reason for this is what Toyota calls the 1:6:90 Rule, which argues that the raw materials needed to create an EV could be used to manufacture 90 hybrid vehicles or six plug-in hybrids. Toyota also believes that the overall carbon reduction of 90 hybrid vehicles would be 37 times greater than that of a single EV. 

Though hybrids don’t require as many materials and have a lower manufacturing carbon footprint, a single EV still has a lower overall carbon footprint than a single hybrid. EVs that draw power from clean energy sources (e.g., hydropower, wind, solar) can also lower their carbon footprint. Keep in mind that if you’re receiving power from a coal-based power plant, your EV’s carbon emissions will go up significantly, as coal generates a lot of CO2.

4. EV vs. Hybrid Repair Costs

The difference between EVs and hybrids in terms of repair costs isn’t clear and can be largely situational. For instance, EVs tend to need less maintenance and repairs since they have fewer moving parts and don’t have an ICE. However, if one of their specialized parts breaks down, the cost of the parts and labor can be more expensive than it would be for a hybrid or standard vehicle. 

Hybrids tend to need more maintenance and repairs than EVs, as they contain an ICE engine. Additionally, the electrical system of a hybrid will also need repairs and maintenance, meaning hybrids are more likely to need service more often than EVs. However, since parts are less specialized than EVs, repair costs can be lower.

5. EV vs. Hybrid Power

If you’re only considering the electric range of EVs and hybrids, EVs are the clear winner. While hybrids typically only get up to about 40 miles for electric-only driving, most EVs offer an electric range between 110 to 300 miles. That being said, hybrids tend to offer greater total range when you combine their ICE and electric range. For example, some hybrids have a total range close to 700 miles, making them a better choice for those who normally need to drive long distances.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Hybrid and EV Repair Services in the NC Triangle

If you need hybrid or EV repair services in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or the surrounding Triangle area, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Our team is trained to perform maintenance and repair services for hybrids and EVs (We can even act as your Tesla service center!). We also offer several coupons you can take advantage of to save on many of our services.

Learn more about our EV and hybrid repair services today. If you need hybrid and EV maintenance or repairs, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area.

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Can I Pass Inspection with a Check Engine Light On in North Carolina?

If your car needs to pass a North Carolina inspection but your check engine light is on, your vehicle likely won’t pass. However, some NC residents can pass a vehicle inspection with a check engine light on if their county doesn’t require emissions testing. As you prepare for your NC state vehicle inspection, take a minute to learn more about why a check engine light can cause you to fail your inspection and how to solve the issue.

What Types of Vehicle Inspections Do Vehicles Need in North Carolina?

If you live in North Carolina, your vehicle will need to pass a safety inspection annually. Many NC counties also require vehicle owners to pass an emissions inspection alongside the safety inspection. Below, you can find a brief overview of what each inspection involves:

  • Safety inspection: A safety inspection is focused on checking that your vehicle is safe to drive. During this inspection, a technician will check your headlights, tires, brakes, turn signals, windshield wipers, brake lights, accessory lights, horns, steering system, rearview mirrors, and window tints for their safety.
  • Emissions inspection: As the name suggests, an emissions inspection is focused on checking that your vehicle is complying with the state’s emissions standards. The emissions inspection will involve checks of your engine, sensors, monitors, and dashboard lights to ensure they’re working appropriately.

Can a Vehicle Pass Inspection With a Check Engine Light On in NC?

If you live in a county that only requires a safety inspection and not an emissions inspection, your vehicle can pass an NC inspection even if the check engine light is on. However, if you live in a county that requires an emissions inspection, you will fail your inspection if your check engine light is on.

What NC Counties Require Emissions Inspections?

19 counties in North Carolina require emissions testing for most vehicles. The NC counties that require emissions testing include:

  • Alamance
  • Buncombe
  • Cabarrus
  • Cumberland
  • Davidson
  • Durham
  • Forsyth
  • Franklin
  • Gaston
  • Guilford
  • Iredell
  • Johnston​
  • Lincoln
  • Mecklenburg
  • New Hanover
  • Randolph​
  • Rowan
  • Wake
  • Union

If you’re a resident of one of the above counties, your vehicle will not pass its emissions test if the engine light is on.

What Types of Vehicles Are Exempt From Emissions Inspections?

North Carolina exempts some types of vehicles from emissions inspections. The following vehicles do not need emissions inspections in North Carolina:

  • Diesel-operated vehicles
  • Vehicles registered as a farm vehicle
  • Vehicles that are 20 years old or older
  • Some light-duty vehicles that have fewer than 70,000 miles or are less than three years old
  • Antique vehicles

How to Pass State Inspection With Check Engine Light On in North Carolina

Unless you live in an NC county that only requires safety tests, you can’t pass your inspection with a check engine light on. Instead of trying to get around the test’s requirements, you should bring your vehicle to a mechanic. They can pinpoint the reason for the engine light being on and fix the issue for you. If they also offer NC state inspections, you can have them perform the inspection after they’ve finished the repair process.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for NC Vehicle Inspections in the Triangle

If you need a North Carolina state inspection in Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Our certified technicians regularly perform safety and emissions inspections for Triangle-based drivers. With our affordable prices, thorough inspections, and commitment to providing excellent service to our customers, we’re ready to become your go-to NC state inspection location. We also offer several coupons you can take advantage of to save on many of our services.

Learn more about our NC state vehicle inspection services today. If you need maintenance or repairs, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area.

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Flooded Car? 7 Things to Do Next

Flooded cars in North Carolina

If your vehicle was impacted by a flood, you should take action quickly to stop problems from getting worse and protect your vehicle from more expensive damage. By knowing the main problems flooded cars can have and what to do once your vehicle is safe to reach, you can reduce the chance your vehicle ends up totaled or needs additional repairs.

10 Common Problems With Flooded Cars

Flood-damaged cars often suffer from a few issues ranging from unusual smells to a damaged engine. If your vehicle has been affected by flooding, review some of the most common problems with flooded cars below:

  • Stained and discolored interior due to water damage
  • Musty or moldy smells
  • Rust
  • Fogging or moisture beads in the exterior or interior lights
  • Stranges noises from the steering wheel or brakes
  • Sand, mud, debris, or dirt in hard-to-clean areas 
  • Engine damage
  • Electrical system and electronic damage
  • Transmission issues
  • Exhaust system damage

What to Do If Your Car Got Flooded: 7 Steps to Follow After Your Vehicle Was Affected by a Flood

Since a flooded vehicle can cause several problems, it’s essential you know what to do if your car is flooded. Below, you can find a breakdown of the main steps to follow to prevent additional damage and have your car running at its best:

1. Don’t Put Yourself in Harm’s Way to Access Your Vehicle

If your vehicle is still in flood water, do not attempt to reach it. Even ankle-deep water could knock you off your feet if the current is moving fast enough. It’s also not safe to wade out to your vehicle in knee-deep, still water. Wait until someone can safely tow your vehicle out of the water or the flood water has drained away before you begin the clean-up and repair process.

2. Disconnect the Battery, and Don’t Turn the Vehicle On

Even if your vehicle has been towed out of flood water, don’t attempt to turn it on. If you do, water could be in the cylinders, and this water could damage your engine if you try to turn it on. 

While wearing dry gloves, you should disconnect the vehicle’s battery to prevent additional damage to the car’s electrical system. Since many parts of your vehicle will have a consistent current of power being sent to them, disconnecting your battery stops the electrical current from mixing with water. If you anticipate flooding, it’s best practice to disconnect the battery to prevent electrical damage from occurring in the first place.

3. Look for a Waterline in Your Vehicle and Document Damage

After disconnecting the battery, look for a waterline on your car’s interior and exterior to see how deep your vehicle was submerged in water. A waterline below the top of your doors is a good sign that only minimal damage occurred. However, a waterline above the dashboard will likely indicate that your vehicle is totaled. You can also check the headlights, taillights, engine bay, and trunk for damage.

While you check your vehicle, take photos and videos of your car with the waterline included to send to your insurance company. You should also have a list of all the parts of your vehicle impacted by flooding.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Depending on your insurance plan, your insurance company may cover flood damage to your vehicle. Regardless, you should contact your insurance agent, review your policy’s insurance coverage, and schedule an assessment of your vehicle with your agent. Make sure you maintain copies of any relevant documents, pictures, records, or communications during this process to assist with your claim.

5. Remove Water From the Vehicle’s Interior

If the waterline is below the dashboard and your vehicle isn’t totaled, you’ll want to remove the water in your vehicle as fast as possible. Excess moisture and standing water in your vehicle can cause mold growth in your interior and corrode important parts of your car. 

Begin by removing standing water with a wet vac, and use towels to soak up any moisture on your floors or seats. Next, you can use a dehumidifier or fan to dry out the vehicle. You can also take any removable cushions, seats, or floor mats out of your vehicle to help them dry faster. Additionally, leave your windows open to let the vehicle air out.

6. Drain Transmission and Engine Oil

Even when the waterline is below your engine, you should still drain your transmission oil, engine oil, and differential fluids as water could be in them. Next, you or a mechanic can refill the oils and fluids.

7. Receive a Professional Assessment and Inspection

After you discuss the next steps with your insurance company, they may send someone to assess your vehicle and determine if it’s totaled. This assessor will calculate the potential cost of odor removal, cleaning, and mechanical and electrical repairs.

If the assessor determines your vehicle isn’t totaled, you still shouldn’t try to start it. Before you do, have a mechanic inspect your vehicle, test electric components, and perform any needed repairs. If you’re not comfortable draining your engine oil or any of the other steps on this list, the mechanic can do so for you. 

You may also want to schedule a professional interior and exterior detailing appointment at the mechanic’s shop. During this appointment, they’ll remove any cosmetic damage to your vehicle’s interior and exterior. They can also thoroughly clean the interior of your vehicle to eliminate any bad odors, stop mold growth, and prevent corrosion. 

Frequently Asked Flooded Car Questions

If you still have questions about what to do after your car is flooded, review our answers to some of the most frequently asked flooded car questions below:

Will Insurance Cover Flooded Cars?

Insurance may or may not cover damage to a flooded car. You’ll want to review your insurance policy to see if it includes coverage for flood damage. 

Are Flooded Cars Fixable?

The amount of flooding will typically determine whether a flooded car is fixable or not. For example, those with a waterline above the dashboard tend not to be fixable, while those with a waterline under the doors are usually repairable.

Will Flooded Cars Have a Shorter Lifespan?

If your vehicle doesn’t receive a thorough inspection and repair services after it’s been flooded, it will likely break down faster than it normally would. However, a properly repaired flooded vehicle can last as long as its normal lifespan.

Is a Car That’s Completely Underwater Repairable?

Typically, a fully submerged car will be totaled, but it may be possible to repair it. You can expect to need a lot of repairs and replacement parts if you want to try to fix a fully submerged vehicle. For instance, a mechanic will likely need to replace most of your electrical components, remove water from the engine, drain and then refill fluids, and fix any corrosion or rust. The repair process will usually be quite expensive and can take some time to finish.

How Should You Move a Flooded Vehicle?

Since you shouldn’t turn your vehicle on after it’s been flooded, you’ll need to hire a tow truck to move the flooded vehicle. A mechanic shop with towing services can help you safely move your vehicle and perform the steps listed previously to prevent additional damage. 

Turn to Chapel Hill Tire for Flooded Car Repairs in the NC Triangle

If you need help removing water from a flooded vehicle or repairs for a flood-damaged car in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding Triangle area, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Our team can remove any water in your vehicle and perform detailing services to clean it. We can also inspect your vehicle for damage, test your electrical components, and provide any needed repair or replacement services. Before you bring your vehicle in for service, check our coupons to see how much you can save.

Learn more about our repair and detailing services today. If you need maintenance or repairs, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area.

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10 Things You Should Do If You Don’t Drive Your Car Often

Seniors driving in nature

If you’re someone who doesn’t drive very often, you might think that you don’t need to worry about performing any maintenance. After all, you’re not driving it, so what could go wrong? Unfortunately, a car that sits unused for weeks on end can develop several issues, such as a dead battery, a rodent infestation, deflated tires, and low fluid levels.

As you try to keep your car in great shape, check out our top 10 tips for maintaining your vehicle while it’s parked for a long period of time.

1. Start the Engine Regularly

Even if you don’t plan on driving, you should still start your car every week or two. Doing so can help keep the battery charged and prevent mechanical parts from seizing up.

2. Check Tire Pressure

When your vehicle sits in the same place over an extended period of time, your tires might deflate. The reason for this deflation is usually because the full weight of the vehicle has been sitting on one portion of your tires for too long. Those who drive regularly won’t have this issue, as the tires will be in a different position every time you park. The part of the tire touching the ground can also become rigid if left too long, leading to flat spots on your tire. 

Since a deflated tire can be dangerous to drive on, you’ll want to check the tire pressure monthly to prevent flat spots and ensure your tires are road-ready. You might also want to repark your vehicle every once in a while to ensure one section of the tire doesn’t have to take the full brunt of the vehicle’s weight for months on end.

3. Change the Oil

Automotive oil can break down over time, even if the car isn’t being driven. Regardless of how much you drive, you’ll want to stick to the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule to avoid engine issues. Most oil manufacturers recommend changing the oil every six months or every 3,000 miles, depending on which of them came first. Since you won’t be driving, you’ll need to change your oil every six months unless the manufacturer recommends a shorter or longer interval.

4. Keep the Battery Charged

If you don’t drive for long periods, your battery will probably be dead when you try to drive your vehicle again. Since vehicle batteries charge while you drive, leaving your vehicle stationary for weeks doesn’t give your battery a chance to recharge. 

To prevent your battery from draining while it’s not in use, consider using a smart trickle charger that will shut off after the battery is fully charged. You can also disconnect the battery to prevent it from completely draining if you plan not to drive for a long time.

5. Protect Your Tires from the Sun

Exposure to direct sunlight can cause tires to crack. If you’ve parked in an area where your tires get a lot of direct sunlight, the sun’s UV rays will break down your tires’ rubber compounds. Instead of parking in direct sunlight, try to park in a garage or somewhere with shade. You can also use a vehicle cover to shield your tires from UV damage.

6. Top Off Fluids

Over time, your vehicle’s essential fluids will evaporate or become contaminated. If you don’t top them off and they evaporate entirely, the empty tanks they’re stored in can begin to rust. When you’re not driving, take the time to top off your brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid, transmission fluid, radiator fluid, and coolant at the recommended manufacturer intervals. 

7. Clean Your Car Inside and Out

Even when parked, dirt and debris can damage your car’s exterior and interior. Cleaning the interior of your car every couple of weeks can stop dust from building up and ensure you don’t have any foods hidden under seats that could attract pests. Additionally, regularly cleaning the interior helps protect your vehicle’s upholstery.

Alongside cleaning the interior, you’ll want to wash the exterior. If you’re parked outside, bird droppings, pollen, bugs, and tree sap can all harm your vehicle’s paint job. You can also apply wax to the vehicle’s exterior to better protect your paint from debris and UV rays. Typically, it’s a good idea to wash your vehicle’s exterior every couple of weeks to prevent damage to the paint.

8. Park in a Covered or Shaded Area

Rain, snow, and UV rays can all damage your vehicle’s exterior, especially when you’re parked in an area open to the elements. If possible, store your car in a garage or under a cover to protect it. You’ll also want to avoid parking under trees, as it raises the risk that tree sap and bird droppings get on your vehicle.

9. Drive It Occasionally

Like the recommendation to turn your vehicle on every one to two weeks, it’s best practice to drive your vehicle for 20-30 minutes every few weeks. By driving your car, you’ll keep all systems functioning properly, like the brakes and air conditioning, and you’ll circulate fluids throughout the engine. Driving occasionally also gives your battery time to recharge and prevents dead batteries.

10. Check for Pests

If your car is parked for a while, pests may try to make it their home. Whether it’s a family of rodents living in your trunk, ants eating food underneath your seats, or wasps that have built a hive under your hood, you don’t want to start driving and realize pests are scurrying about. Before you drive your vehicle, check for any signs of critters under the hood or inside the cabin.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Vehicle Repairs and Maintenance in the Triangle

If your car is having problems after you’ve not driven it for some time and you need a vehicle inspection in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Our team of certified technicians can fully inspect your vehicle and pinpoint the source of any issue your vehicle is experiencing. Whether you need your tires refilled, a new battery, or a thorough cleaning, we’ll perform whatever service you need quickly and professionally. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save!

Learn more about our automotive repair services today. If you need maintenance or repairs, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area.

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What Does TPMS Mean? A Guide to Your Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Woman fills up a tire

While you’re driving, your tires shouldn’t be over or under-inflated, as both cause your tires to wear down faster and raise your risk of a blowout. In an attempt to make vehicles safer and reduce the risk of under or over-inflated tires, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration established the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 138. This standard mandated that every passenger vehicle produced after September 2007 have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).

Though TPMSs are now mandatory in passenger vehicles, many drivers still don’t know what they do, which makes it more likely they drive on a set of underinflated tires. Since these systems play a crucial safety role in vehicles, drivers should know what they are and how to spot signs that their TMPS is malfunctioning. 

What Does TPMS Mean on a Car?

A TPMS refers to tire pressure sensors that monitor your tires’ pressure to make sure the pressure doesn’t drop below your vehicle’s recommended levels (typically, 32 to 35 psi). If the sensors detect your tire’s pressure is too low or high, it will display a warning light on your vehicle’s dashboard. Most TPMSs will display a warning light when the tire pressure is 25% below or above the recommended level. This warning light will stay on until the tire pressure is restored to recommended levels.

What Does a TPMS Warning Light Look Like?

Typically, a vehicle’s TPMS warning light will appear on the dashboard and look like an exclamation point in the center of a horseshoe. However, some vehicles will also display text on the dashboard that says “Low Tire Pressure.” If you notice either of these warnings, your TPMS will have detected that at least one of your tires doesn’t have enough pressure. Cars with more advanced dashboards might even display your vehicles’ tires with the PSI listed beside them to show you which tire needs to be refilled with air.

What Should You Do If Your TPMS Warning Light Comes On?

When you start your vehicle, it’s perfectly normal for the TPMS light to come on with other warning lights and turn off after a minute or so. However, if the light continues to stay on after the other lights turn off, you likely have a tire pressure issue.

You should check your tires’ PSI as soon as possible after the warning light comes on. After checking your tires with a tire pressure gauge and finding which ones have too much or too little pressure, you should take your vehicle to a gas station with an air pump if you don’t have a pump at home. Use the pump to fill your vehicle’s tires to the right level. After you’re done, your TPMS warning light should turn off.

Signs Your TPMS Is Malfunctioning

At times, a TPMS can malfunction, raising the risk you don’t notice that you’re driving on a set of under or over-inflated tires. As you try to prevent excess wear on your tires and reduce your risk of a blowout, you should know the following main signs of a malfunctioning TPMS:

  • A flashing TPMS warning light: If your TPMS starts flashing, it’s a sign that at least one of your TPMS’s sensors is failing. Solving this issue involves repairing or replacing the failing sensor.
  • Inaccurate tire pressure readings: Even though TPMSs are standard in vehicles, you should still check your tire pressure at least once a month. If you discover your tire pressure is too high or low, but the TPMS warning light hasn’t come on, your TPMS needs to be inspected. Additionally, if you have a vehicle that displays the PSI of each tire on your dashboard, you can compare its readings to your tire pressure gauge’s measurements to determine how accurate the TPMS is.
  • A TPMS warning light that won’t reset: If you know your tires’ pressure is correct but the TPMS warning light won’t let you reset it, it could be due to a TPMS malfunction. Before you take your vehicle in for an inspection, make sure you’ve followed the instructions in your owner’s manual to properly reset the light. Once you’ve followed your manual’s instructions and the light still won’t reset, it’s time for a professional to inspect your TPMS.

What Should I Do If My TPMS Is Malfunctioning?

If your TPMS is showing signs that it’s malfunctioning, you should take your vehicle to a mechanic for an inspection. The mechanic should be able to determine if the TPMS is malfunctioning, repair it, and get you back on the road. 

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for TPMS Repairs in the Triangle

If you’re looking for TPMS repair services in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, or the surrounding Triangle area, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. Whether you think your TPMS is malfunctioning or you need assistance refilling the pressure in your tires, our team can help. After we inspect your vehicle and discuss our results with you, our mechanics will quickly solve your TPMS issue. We can also help you find and install a new set of tires if your old tires are consistently losing air due to a puncture or other damage. 

Learn more about our automotive repair services today. If you need a TPMS repair or any other automotive service, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save!

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Common Tire Change Mistakes: Is Your Car at Risk?

Tire change

Knowing how to safely change a tire is essential for any driver. If it’s been a while since you learned how to change a tire and want to make sure you’re doing it correctly, you’ll want to avoid some common mistakes. As you prepare to change a tire, take a moment to review the top seven tire-changing mistakes drivers often make.

1. Assuming You Have a Spare and Tire Changing Tools in Your Vehicle

While spare tires used to be standard in almost every vehicle, 40% of new cars don’t come with a spare tire; instead they include a mobility kit with tire sealer.  If you’ve never checked if your vehicle has a spare, jack, and tire tool, you’ll want to make sure you have them (typically, they’re located in a spare tire well beneath the trunk of a vehicle). Drivers who don’t have a spare tire, jack, and tire tool should invest in them, but if there’s nowhere to store them, they should at least invest in a puncture repair kit to fix minor punctures temporarily.

In addition to checking that you have a spare tire, jack, and tire tool, you’ll need to have a few more right tire-changing tools in your vehicle. If your vehicle has a tire pressure gauge, portable tire inflator, and wheel wedges/chocks, you’re in good shape.  A torque wrench to properly tighten the lug nuts/studs would be a plus, but isn’t necessary for a temporary tire.  While checking for the necessary items, it is a great time to check and adjust the spare tire’s pressure.

2. Using an Improperly Sized Spare Tire

After verifying you have a spare tire and the right tools, you should check that your spare tire is properly sized for your vehicle. Driving on a spare that’s too small or large for your vehicle can lead to vehicle damage, performance issues, and reduce the durability of your other tires. 

You can easily see if a tire is sized correctly by checking your owner’s manual for the right type of tire. If you don’t have your owner’s manual, you can find the information on a sticker located on the driver’s side door or in the door jamb on most vehicles.

3. Not Parking the Vehicle in a Safe or Flat Location

Before you start changing your tire, it’s important to park your vehicle in a safe location first. While an unexpected flat tire can make you panic, you’ll need to keep a cool head and gradually pull your vehicle off the road. Typically, parking lots will be the safest location to change a tire, and if you can’t find a safe location, there’s no shame in calling for a tow instead of trying to change your tire in a dangerous place.

If you’re on a highway and aren’t close to an offramp where it will be safer to pull over, try to stop on a straight section of the highway, as parking on a curve could reduce your visibility to other drivers. Turning your vehicle’s hazards on can also make you more visible. Additionally, avoid changing your tire on a hill or at an incline, as it raises the risk of your car falling off the jack.

4. Not Knowing Where to Place the Jack When Changing a Tire

Every vehicle should have jacking points designed for your jack on its underside. When you don’t place the jack underneath these points, your vehicle could slip off the jack, or the jack could damage your vehicle. Before you place your jack underneath your vehicle, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the correct jacking points.  Once the jack is properly positioned, but before lifting the vehicle, loosen each lug nut or bolt on the wheel with the flat tire about 1 turn.

5. Leaving the Lug Nuts Not Fully Tightened

Once you’ve replaced your tire with the spare, you’ll need to screw the lug nuts or bolts back on before you lower your vehicle back down. If you don’t fully tighten the lug nuts or bolts, your wheel will be loose and could fall off your vehicle.

While you can use your hand to screw the lug nuts or bolts back on part of the way, you’ll need a lug wrench to snug them. After snugging the lug nuts or bolts, you can lower your vehicle off the jack. Once the installed spare tire is on the ground, use the wrench and your full body weight to turn the lug nuts or bolts until they can’t be tightened anymore. This should ensure they are tight enough to get to your destination.

6. Driving Away Without Checking the Spare Tire’s Tire Pressure

After you’ve lowered your vehicle off the jack, don’t immediately drive away. Instead, use your tire pressure gauge on the spare tire to verify that the pressure is right for your vehicle. If the spare is underinflated, you can use a portable inflator to fill the tire to your vehicle’s recommended levels. If you don’t have a portable inflator, but the spare tire has at least ¾ of the rated pressure, slowly drive to the closest gas station and use their air pump.

7. Not Changing Your Tires at Recommended Intervals

Knowing how often to change tires can help reduce the chance you experience a flat tire in the first place. Tires are only built to last so long, and driving on tires with significant wear and tear raises the risk of a blown tire. A good rule of thumb is to replace your tires once their tread depth has dipped below 4/32 of an inch of thickness. Since a tire’s rubber will harden over time, tires older than six years should also be replaced.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tire Replacement Services in the Triangle

If you need tire replacement services in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Whether you’ve just experienced a flat tire or your current tires have reached the end of their lifespan, our team can quickly inspect your vehicle and install a new set for you. We also have a tire finder tool that makes it easy to find a new set of tires!

Learn more about our tire replacement services today. If you need new tires or any other auto services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save!

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Why Do New Car Tires Wear Out So Fast?

New cars on the lot with bad tires

When you purchase a new car, it will come equipped with an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) set of tires made by your vehicle’s automaker. Though these tires are usually well-made and can enhance your experience while driving, you might have noticed that they wear out faster than you’ve come to expect from tires in the past. Before you purchase a new vehicle or set of wheels, learn more about why new car tires tend to wear out so fast and whether you should expect your new car to have a spare. 

How Long Should Tires Last on a Brand-New Car?

Generally, new tires are designed to last between 40,000 and 70,000 miles. However, multiple factors can affect how long a tire lasts, such as the driving environment, the tire’s design, the materials used in the tire, the type of tire, and your driving habits. 

Why Do New Car Tires Wear Out So Fast?

While you might be able to get 70,000 miles out of a set of tires, most new tires won’t deliver that sort of longevity. If you’ve noticed that your new car tires usually need to be replaced closer to the 40,000 mark, it’s likely due to how OEM tires are built now. In the past few years, automakers have started to prioritize cost, dry grip, efficiency, and noise/comfort when designing tires for new gas-powered vehicles. For electric vehicles, manufacturers tend to design their tires with a low rolling resistance to lengthen the vehicle’s range.

The reason for these changing priorities is that automakers want buyers to receive the best ride quality possible when they take their vehicles off the lot. Designing tires that increase a tire’s EV range or fuel efficiency can also make their vehicles more attractive to potential buyers.

Due to the focus on better ride quality and efficiency, auto manufacturers tend to make their tires with softer rubber compared to the harder rubber of the past. While harder rubber is more durable and helps tires last longer, softer rubber does a better job of absorbing bumps while you’re driving and improves traction. This greater absorption leads to a smoother ride quality, which automakers tend to prioritize over a tire’s longevity. However, the softer rubber’s tread will wear down faster, as it’s not as durable.

Fortunately, while OEM tires typically use softer rubber, you can find specialty tires that use harder rubber and are designed to last longer. An auto shop that sells tires can help you find tires that prioritize longevity over a smoother driving experience. As long as the tires match your vehicle, the auto shop can install them for you.

Do New Cars Come With Spare Tires?

According to Consumer Reports, around 40% percent of new cars don’t feature a spare tire. While this might seem alarming, especially since new tires can be expected to wear out faster, some new vehicles will have a sealant kit designed to patch a hole if your tires are punctured while driving. Additionally, some new cars have run-flat tires that are designed to travel a short distance after they lose air. 

In many cases, a run-flat tire or sealant kit will work fine as a temporary solution before you take your vehicle to an auto shop for a new set. Not having a spare tire can also help a bit with increasing your vehicle’s fuel economy, as not including a spare tire reduces a vehicle’s weight.

While vehicles without spare tires might have alternative solutions, they have some drawbacks. For example, a sealant kit won’t work if your tire suffers from extensive damage, and if you’re too far from a repair shop, driving on a run-flat tire will be risky. As a result, make sure to check whether your new vehicle has a spare tire, and if it doesn’t, you might want to consider purchasing one for greater peace of mind.

Turn to Chapel Hill Tire for Tire Replacement Services in the Triangle

If you’re looking for new tires in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. With our tire finder tool, you can easily find a new set of tires that match your vehicle’s needs and desired durability. Any new tires you purchase from us feature our price-beat guarantee, a lifetime of free flat repairs, rotation and road force balancing, and pressure checks. Our team can also recommend new tires, and once you decide on a set, we’ll quickly install them for you. 

Learn more about our tire replacement services today. If you need new tires or any other auto services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save!

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Durham Tesla Service: How to Skip Long Waits for Service

Durham skyline

If you need Tesla service in Durham, North Carolina, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Since we train our team to work on Teslas and use state-of-the-art equipment, you can trust us as your go-to location for Tesla repair and maintenance services. Take a moment to learn more about how Chapel Hill Tire can help you receive affordable, effective, and fast service for Teslas in Durham. 

How Can Tesla Owners in Durham Receive Service Faster at Chapel Hill Tire?

As a trusted provider of Tesla repair services in the Triangle, we pride ourselves on providing faster services for Tesla owners in Durham. The speed of our services is largely due to the cutting-edge equipment we use and our large team of properly trained technicians. Whether you need a quick inspection or a more complex repair, you can expect our team to provide whatever service you need as fast as possible.

Can You Expect the Same Quality of Tesla Service at Chapel Hill Tire?

Chapel Hill Tire is a trusted provider of repair and maintenance services in Durham and the rest of the Triangle. Since we train our team to work on Teslas and maintain high standards for all our mechanics, we’re confident you’ll receive premium workmanship when you choose us as your Durham Tesla maintenance provider. 

Our highly qualified team is backed up by our state-of-the-art equipment. For example, we rely on Hunter Center Clamp Tire Changers for tire replacements, the Hunter Road Force Balancer for wheel balancing, and the Hunter Hawkeye Elite Alignment system for wheel alignments. This equipment is the best of the best for Tesla service, enabling us to quickly perform highly accurate services.

Alongside our exceptional equipment and team, we’re committed to offering fair pricing for our Tesla services. This commitment means Tesla owners can expect to receive more cost-effective service when they choose Chapel Hill Tire over other Tesla service providers.  

What Tesla Services Does Chapel Hill Tire Offer in Durham?

Whether you need new tires, control arm repairs, or wheel alignment services, our Durham team has you covered. Review our selection of Tesla services in Durham below:

1. Tire Curbing Repairs

While most vehicles are designed to have their tires stick out farther than the rims, Tesla’s tires are located behind the rim. This design makes a Tesla’s rims more prone to damage and scratches. If your rims have been damaged, we can quickly fix any cosmetic damage and restore their appearance with our tire curbing repair services.

2. Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment issues can cause several issues, like problems with handling and premature tire wear. During our wheel alignment service, we’ll use our Hunter Hawkeye Elite Alignment system to capture alignment measurements in just 70 seconds. This alignment system also gives our technicians the precision they need to adjust your vehicle’s alignment accurately.

3. Tire Replacement

If your Tesla’s tires have been worn down to a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to swap them out. Our team can help you find a replacement set of tires that is right for your Tesla model. After you’ve picked your new tires, we’ll install them with our Hunter Clamp Tire Changers. Since we use this piece of equipment during our Tesla tire replacement service, we completely eliminate the risk of wheel damage during installation. 

4. Wheel Balancing

When your Tesla’s wheels are out of balance, our Durham team can solve it. Once we’ve identified a wheel balancing problem, our team will use our Hunter Road Force Balancer to fix the uneven weight distribution. Since the Hunter Road Force Balancer features SmartWeight® balancing technology, it helps us ensure your Tesla’s wheels and tires are properly balanced with the right weight distribution. 

5. Other Tesla Services

In addition to the services discussed above, we offer the following Tesla services:

  • Tesla Control Arm Repairs
  • 12v Battery Replacements
  • Rim Protection
  • Tire Patching Services
  • Tire Rotation Services
  • Tire Inflation Services

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tesla Service in Cary, North Carolina

If you’re looking for a Tesla service provider in Durham, North Carolina, choose Chapel Hill Tire. Due to our highly experienced and qualified staff, cutting-edge equipment, and many Tesla services, you can rely on us as your primary Tesla repair and maintenance provider in Durham. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save on many of our services.

Learn more about our Tesla services today. If you’re ready to bring your car in for service, please make an appointment at one of our Durham locations.

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Cary Tesla Service: Save Money and Avoid Long Wait Times

Tesla charging stations

If you’re looking for fast Tesla service in Cary, North Carolina, Chapel Hill Tire is ready to help. Our Cary team is trained to work on Teslas and regularly provides fast repair and maintenance services to Tesla owners. As you look for a Tesla maintenance provider in Cary, find out more about how we help Tesla owners receive fast, affordable, and effective service.

How Can Tesla Owners in Cary Receive Service Faster at Chapel Hill Tire?

At Chapel Hill Tire, our large team and state-of-the-art equipment help us provide the fastest services to Tesla owners in Cary. When you bring your vehicle in for an appointment, our team will quickly diagnose whatever issue your Tesla is experiencing and have it repaired as fast as possible.

Can You Expect the Same Quality of Tesla Service at Chapel Hill Tire?

If you bring your Tesla in for service at Chapel Hill Tire, you can be confident your vehicle is in good hands. Since we hold our mechanics to the highest standards and train them to work on Teslas, you can always expect to receive premium workmanship from our technicians.

Backing our exceptional workmanship is the cutting-edge equipment we use for Tesla services. For instance, we use the Hunger Road Force Balancer for wheel balancing, the Hunter Hawkeye Elite Alignment System for wheel alignments, and Hunter Center Clamp Tire Changers for tire replacements. All these pieces of equipment are perfect for Tesla service work, enabling us to provide faster and more accurate service.

We pair our excellent workmanship and equipment with affordable Tesla service rates. Due to our commitment to fair pricing, you can expect to pay less when you bring your Tesla in for service at Chapel Hill Tire instead of another Tesla service provider. 

What Tesla Services Does Chapel Hill Tire Offer in Cary?

From wheel balancing and wheel alignments to 12v battery replacements and tire curbing repairs, we offer several Tesla services at our auto shops. Learn more about our Cary Tesla services below:

1. Wheel Balancing

If your tires have been thrown out of balance, our team can solve the issue. After we’ve inspected your vehicle and identified a wheel balancing issue, we’ll use our Hunter Road Force Balancer to correct the imbalance. This piece of equipment features SmartWeight® balancing technology, which ensures your Tesla’s weight is evenly distributed and your wheels are balanced. 

2. Wheel Alignment

When you want to prevent issues like premature tire wear and difficulties with handling, your Tesla’s wheels need to be properly aligned. Our Hunter Hawkeye Elite Alignment system allows us to take alignment measurements in only 70 seconds to verify your vehicle’s wheels are out of alignment. While we realign your vehicle, the Hunter Hawkeye Elite Alignment system lets our technicians make precise adjustments, enabling greater accuracy.

3. Tire Curbing Repairs

Unlike most other vehicles where the tires jut out farther than the rims (which provides the rims with extra protection), a Tesla’s rim sticks out ahead of the tire. This design increases the risk of damage and scratches to a Tesla’s rims. If your rims have been damaged, our tire curbing repair services can restore your rims’ appearance and fix any cosmetic damage.

4. Tire Replacement

When a Tesla’s tires have a tread depth of 2/32 of an inch or lower, you’ll need to replace them. Our team can help you find a set of tires perfect for your needs and Tesla model. Once you’ve decided on a set, we’ll quickly install your new tires with our Hunter Center Clamp Tire Changers. This piece of equipment enables fast replacements and eliminates the risk of wheel damage during the installation process. 

5. Other Tesla Services

Alongside the services highlighted above, you can receive the following Tesla services at all of our locations:

  • 12v Battery Replacements
  • Tire Rotation Services
  • Tire Patching Services
  • Tire Inflation Services
  • Rim Protection
  • Tesla Control Arm Repairs

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tesla Service in Cary, North Carolina

Whenever you need Tesla service in Cary, North Carolina, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. With our many services, state-of-the-art equipment, and experienced staff, we’re confident we can take care of most of your Tesla’s maintenance and repair needs. We also recommend checking out our coupons to see how much you can save on many of our services.

Learn more about our Tesla services today. If you’re ready to bring your car in for service, please make an appointment at one of our Cary locations.