Category: Resource

Buying new tires can feel overwhelming—there’s plenty to consider, from price and brand to performance and safety. To simplify this essential purchase, this guide walks you step-by-step through choosing the right tires for your vehicle, ensuring you get the best value and performance for your investment.

When Should You Replace Your Tires?

Knowing when it’s time for new tires helps keep you safe and your vehicle running smoothly. Here are clear signs it’s time for replacements:

• Low Tread Depth: Use the penny test by inserting a penny into your tire tread upside-down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is dangerously low, and it’s time to replace the tire.

• Uneven Wear: Uneven tread wear can indicate alignment or suspension issues.
• Tire Damage: Visible cracks, cuts, bulges, or sidewall damage require immediate attention.
• Vibration: Excessive vibration or wobbling at higher speeds can indicate tire issues.

Selecting the Right Tire Type

The right tire type depends on your driving conditions, climate, and vehicle type:

Understanding Tire Specifications

Every tire has numbers and letters on its sidewall that indicate its specifications. For example, if you tire has a code of P225/60R 91V, this means:

1. Tire Type (P)

• The first letter indicates the type of vehicle the tire is meant for:
• P: Passenger vehicles (cars, minivans, crossovers, some SUVs)
• LT: Light Trucks (larger SUVs, trucks, and vehicles designed for carrying heavier loads)
• If no letter is present, it’s generally a European metric tire type for passenger vehicles.

2. Tire Width (225)

This number indicates the width of the tire from sidewall to sidewall in millimeters (mm).

3. Aspect Ratio (60)

The aspect ratio is the tire’s sidewall height represented as a percentage of its width. A lower number indicates a shorter (and usually sportier) sidewall, while a higher number means a taller sidewall.

Ensure you choose tires matching your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found in your owner’s manual or on a placard in your car door jamb.

4. Construction Type (R)

The letter following the aspect ratio indicates the tire’s internal construction:

• R: Radial construction (layers run radially across the tire)
• D or – (dash): Bias ply (diagonal layers), rare for modern passenger vehicles.

5. Rim Diameter (17)

This number indicates the diameter (size) of the wheel rim (in inches) that the tire is designed to fit.

6. Load Index (91)

The load index is a numerical code indicating the maximum weight the tire can support when properly inflated. It does not directly represent weight in pounds or kilograms but corresponds to a standardized scale.

Common examples:

• 89 = 1,279 lbs per tire
• 91 = 1,356 lbs per tire
• 95 = 1,521 lbs per tire

7. Speed Rating (V)

The speed rating indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can safely operate when properly inflated and under its rated load. It’s represented by a letter from a standardized system.

Common speed rating letters:

Rating	Max Speed (mph)	Max Speed (km/h)	Typical Use
S	112 mph	180 km/h	Passenger cars, minivans
T	118 mph	190 km/h	Standard passenger vehicles
H	130 mph	210 km/h	Sport sedans, coupes
V	149 mph	240 km/h	Performance sedans, coupes
W	168 mph	270 km/h	High-performance vehicles
Y	186 mph	300 km/h	Ultra high-performance vehicles

Balancing Cost and Quality

When it comes to tires, cheaper isn’t always better. Here’s how to make a smart choice:

• Avoid Budget Tires: Extremely inexpensive tires usually have poorer durability, lower safety, and higher overall costs due to frequent replacements.
• Mid-Range Brands: Brands like Yokohama, Cooper, Hankook, and Continental offer a good balance of affordability, safety, and durability.
• Premium Brands: Brands like Michelin and Bridgestone typically offer the highest quality, longest-lasting tires with excellent performance, especially if you regularly face challenging driving conditions.

Where Should You Buy Tires?

You generally have three main options:

1. Local Tire Shops (Such as Chapel Hill Tire)

• Offer personalized expert advice.
• Usually provide services like alignment, rotation, and lifetime balancing.
• Often have competitive pricing and flexible warranties.

2. Online Tire Retailers

• Conveniently compare prices and reviews online.
• Often provide competitive pricing, wide selection, and home or local-shop delivery.
• You will need local installation services after purchase.

3. Car Dealerships

• Often charge premium prices with limited tire selection.
• Usually convenient but rarely the best value for your money.
• Always compare dealership pricing against local or online retailers before purchasing.

Additional Considerations and Services

• Tire Rotation: Regular rotation (every 5,000-7,500 miles) extends tire life and ensures even tread wear.
• Wheel Alignment: Always get an alignment when you install new tires or notice uneven wear to maximize tire lifespan and improve vehicle handling.
• Warranty and Road Hazard Coverage: Choose tires with solid warranties and consider road hazard coverage, especially if you regularly drive on poor-quality roads.

Expert Advice: Maximizing Your Tire Investment

• Always replace tires in pairs or sets of four for balanced handling and performance.
• Invest in quality tires suitable for your climate and driving style, improving fuel efficiency and safety.
• Maintain proper tire inflation to optimize tire lifespan and vehicle efficiency.

Chapel Hill Tire: Your Local Tire Shop

When you are ready to buy new tires, visit the experts at Chapel Hill Tire. We have a vast selection of available tires sure to meet the needs of your car, truck, SUV, or crossover. Our experts even offer a Price Beat Guarantee to ensure that you get the best possible price on your new tires. We work hard to ensure an upgraded customer experience, both online and in-store. Make your appointment at one of our 8 Triangle-area locations (including tires in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, and Carrboro) or shop online today to get started!

Fix-a-Flat is a popular liquid tire sealant meant to seal small punctures in a tire and is regularly used by drivers looking for a quick solution to a flat tire. While many people use Fix-a-Flat, it can cause more problems than it solves, and most mechanics won’t recommend you use it. As you decide whether you should keep a spare can of Fix-a-Flat in your car or garage, take a moment to learn why Fix-a-Flat and other similar products can be bad for tires and what to use instead when you get a flat.

Is Fix-a-Flat Bad for Tires? 5 Reasons to Avoid Using Fix-a-Flat

Fix-a-Flat is bad for tires, as it can cause long-term damage to your tires and mess with sensors. Alongside these issues, Fix-a-Flat isn’t a long-term solution, can freeze in winter temperatures, and is difficult to clean up. Before you decide to use this liquid sealant, review the top five reasons not to use Fix-a-Flat below:

1. Only a Temporary Solution to a Puncture

Fix-a-Flat is nothing more than a short-term band-aid for a tire puncture and is not meant to be used as a permanent repair. Since it’s only designed to get you off the roadside and to a repair shop, anyone who uses it as a long-term solution will be dealing with another flat sooner rather than later. Additionally, the product is only made for small punctures and won’t help if your tire has a large puncture, a sidewall gash, or a complete blowout. 

2. Potential Unrepairable Tire Damage

The tire sealant used in Fix-a-Flat can cause significant long-term harm to your tire. When it’s applied to a puncture, the sealant will get into your tire’s steel belts and potentially corrode them. This corrosion can cause belt separation within your tire, significantly increasing the risk of a dangerous blowout while on the road. Due to the long-term damage Fix-a-Flat causes, reputable tire shops tend to refuse to repair tires treated with it. 

3. Messes With Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Sensors

Alongside damaging your tires, Fix-a-Flat can mess with sensors and harm your tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). When you spray the liquid sealant into your tire’s valve stem, it will seal your puncture while also sealing a tiny hole in your tire that your TPMS relies on to sense air pressure. When this hole is closed, your TPMS sensors won’t work correctly, and you’ll have to clean out the hole before it starts providing an accurate reading again.

4. Ineffective in Freezing Temperatures

If you live in an area where the temperature stays under freezing for a good portion of the year, you shouldn’t rely on Fix-a-Flat. When it’s cold outdoors, the Fix-a-Flat’s liquid sealant can freeze, making it unusable until it’s been defrosted. While you could warm it up by placing it near your car’s interior heater vent, you’ll have to wait a bit for the sealant to defrost. This extra time can allow more air to escape from your tire and keep you on the side of the road longer.

5. Results in a Messy Cleanup

Even if a repair shop agrees to repair your tires, the repair will likely cost more and take more time due to the messy cleanup that Fix-a-Flat requires. When you spray the sealant into your tire, it won’t just cover your puncture. The sealant will leave tons of goo in the tire that a mechanic will have to clean out (leaving it in the tire raises the risk of corrosion issues), which can take lots of time and increase the repair’s cost.

Practical Alternative to a Fix-a-Flat Kit

Since using a Fix-a-Flat can be ineffective and even damage your vehicle, it should only ever be used as a last resort in an emergency situation. While you might want to keep it on hand for emergencies when you don’t have any other options, you can almost always deal with a flat tire in a safer and more effective manner. Review some of the practical alternatives to using Fix-a-Flat kits below: 

• Carry a proper tire plug or patch kit
• Keep a spare tire (check out our guide to changing a tire!)
• Have roadside assistance (e.g., AAA)
• Store a portable air compressor in your car

If you don’t want to deal with a roadside repair and the options above aren’t appealing, you can invest in run-flat tires for your vehicle. Unlike other tires, run-flats are designed to be driven on after a flat (usually up to 50 miles). As a result, you can drive your vehicle to the closest repair shop for professional tire repair services without having to change your tire on the side of the road.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Flat Tire Repairs in Raleigh

If you’re looking for a flat tire repair shop in Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Our certified mechanics regularly repair flat tires, and we have a tire finder tool that can help you find replacement tires when a repair won’t cut it. You can also expect our team to help you decide on a new set of tires, properly repair small punctures, and perform any service as quickly and professionally as possible. 

Learn more about our tire repair services today. If you need one of our tire repair or replacement services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

If you have an electric vehicle (EV) and live in Chapel Hill, you have lots of charging options for your vehicle. While Chapel Hill is the smallest of the big three NC-Triangle cities, it still offers a wide variety of conveniently located Level 2 and Level 3 EV charging stations. As you try to find EV charging stations in Chapel Hill, take a moment to check out our guide to EV charging stations in the city and a directory of the publicly available charging stations.

Chapel Hill’s EV Charging Landscape: An Overview

Chapel Hill is very EV-friendly, with many EV charging stations available for public use. If you’re considering purchasing an EV in the Triangle, review our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about EV charging stations in Chapel Hill below:

How Many Public EV Charging Stations Are There in Chapel Hill?

According to ChargeHub, Chapel Hill has 81 public charging station ports that are located within 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) of the city.

How Many Level 2 Versus Level 3 Charging Stations Are There in Chapel Hill?

If you’re looking for a charging station, Level 2 chargers are more common, with these stations using alternating current power. In contrast, Level 3 charging stations use direct current power. Since Level 3 chargers offer much faster charging times, they’re often located near highways, while Level 2 chargers are placed in locations where drivers typically won’t need a super fast charge. 

ChargeHub states that Chapel Hill has 71 Level 2 stations (representing 88% of all public charging stations) and 10 Level 3 stations (representing 12% of all public charging stations). However, these numbers are likely outdated, as more companies, the University of North Carolina, and the city continue to invest in charging stations. 

How Many Free Charging Options Are There in Chapel Hill?

ChargeHub states there are 33 free charging stations in Chapel Hill, making up 41% of the available charging stations in the city. 

What Are the Main EV Charging Networks in Chapel Hill?

Like gas stations, you might prefer a specific brand of charging station. Fortunately, you can find many options in the Chapel Hill area. For example, ChargePoint, Tesla, and Blink are all charging networks that have charging stations in Chapel Hill.

In-Depth Directory of Charging Stations

Based on available data, we’ve compiled a list of publicly available charging stations in Chapel Hill. Below, you can find a breakdown of the available charging stations, where they’re located, and the charge level offered:

Charging Station Name	Location	Neighborhood/General Area	Level	Number of Charging Plugs
Chapel Hill Aquatic Center Public EVSEs	300 Aquatic Drive, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Ashley Forest	Level 2	2
Eubanks Road Park-and-Ride	2000 Eubanks Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Eubanks	Level 2	2
Tesla Supercharger	100 Village Center Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27516	Eubanks	Level 3	10
ChargePoint	101 Glen Lennox Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27517	Near Meadowmont	Level 2	2
Blink	1011 South Hamilton Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27517	Meadowmont	Level 2	1
Wegmans	1810 Fordham Boulevard, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514	Near University Place	Level 2	2
Blink	900 Willow Dr, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	University Place	Level 2	14 (2 more ports are located at Willow Apartments)
ChargePoint	207 South Elliott Road, Chapel Hill, NC  27514	Eastgate	Level 2	20
UNC Business School Deck – ChargePoint	300 Kenan Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	UNC Campus	Level 2	2
UNC Ramshead Deck – ChargePoint	104 Ridge Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	UNC Campus	Level 2	2
UNC Cardinal Deck – ChargePoint	Cardinal Deck Skywalk, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	UNC Campus	Level 2	2
UNC Cobb Deck – ChargePoint	Paul Green Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	UNC Campus	Level 2	2
UNC Craige Deck – ChargePoint	290-296 Manning Drive, Chapel Hill, NC 27514	UNC Campus	Level 2	2
Mills Rentals Office	120 Purefoy Road, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514	Near UNC Campus	Level 2	1
The Carolina Inn – Tesla Destination Charger	211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	1
Rosemary Garage – ChargeUp	125 East Rosemary, Chapel Hill, NC, 27514	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	10
Carolina Square Parking Deck	121 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	13
ChargePoint	205 West Rosemary Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	4
Chapel Hill Town Hall – ChargePoint	North Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC, 27516	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	2
Graduate by Hilton – Tesla Destination Charger	311 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516	Downtown Chapel Hill	Level 2	8 (4 EV Plug Ports and  4 Tesla Ports)
Hyatt Place – Tesla DestinationCharger	1090 US Hwy 15 501 SChapel Hill, NC 27517	Southern Village	Level 2	3 (1 EV Plug Port, and 2 Tesla Ports)
Southern Community Park	1300 US 15-501 SChapel Hill, NC 27516	Southern Village	Level 2	2

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for EV Repairs in the NC Triangle

If you own an EV and need an EV repair in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding Triangle area, turn to Chapel Hill Tire. We regularly service Teslas and other EVs, and our Chapel Hill locations will be happy to perform a number of services for your EV. Whether you need an inspection, control arm repair, or alignment, our EV-qualified mechanics can help.Learn more about our Tesla and other EV services today. If you need one of our tire repair or replacement services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

During the spring, the NC Triangle tends to get lots of pollen, with the powdery substance coating any vehicles that aren’t stored in a garage for the whole season. Beyond causing more allergy symptoms, pollen can actually damage your vehicle’s paint and clog your air filters. As you try to stop pollen from hurting your car, take a moment to learn more about why pollen is bad for cars and how to care for your vehicle during pollen season.

Why Is Pollen Bad for Cars?

Besides hurting your car’s appearance, pollen can have a few negative effects on your vehicle. For example, pollen has tiny spikes that cause it to stick to a vehicle’s exterior, with these spikes digging into the paint. When the pollen isn’t removed, it will expose your paint job to rust and oxidation. 

Pollen can also clog air filters, making your HVAC system work harder to force air through the clogged filter. A struggling HVAC system can lead to refrigerant leaks, reduced airflow in a vehicle’s cabin, and less effective cooling. Pollen can also worsen your vehicle’s air quality if you have lots of it in your filters or if it gets tracked into the vehicle.

How Long Is Peak Pollen Season?

Tree pollen in the NC Triangle typically starts around the beginning of March and will significantly increase after mid-March, with peak pollen season occurring during the first week of April. After that first week, tree pollen should continue to decrease gradually until the end of May. The yellow pollen that gets all over your car during this time frame primarily comes from pine trees, and peak amounts of it occur for about three weeks. 

5 Tips for Preparing Your Car for Spring Pollen Season

Since pollen can harm cars and the NC Triangle tends to get a lot of pollen from pine trees, it’s important to prepare your vehicle for pollen season. Whether it’s checking your filters, washing your car more often, or applying a protective wax coating, there’s a lot you can do to prevent pollen buildup on your vehicle. Learn more about how to prepare your car for pollen season below:

1. Check Your Filters

While most people worry about how pollen will make their car look or affect their paint job, it can actually mess with your engine and cabin air filters. During the spring, these filters will catch pollen and eventually become clogged. Clogged filters can cause several issues, such as harming your engine’s performance, reducing your vehicle’s air quality, and decreasing your vehicle’s airflow. 

Before the spring, have your filters checked and replace them if they’re already clogged or close to being clogged. If they’re still clean, check them in mid-spring to see if they’re clogged with pollen.

 2. Wash Your Car More Often

Wondering how often you should wash your car during pollen season? Though some sources online say you should handwash your car every other day, this amount of washing is likely overkill, especially if you have a busy schedule. Generally, handwashing your vehicle once a week is a good way to prevent too much pollen buildup and stop it from damaging your paint.

In between the weekly car washes, you can also rinse the pollen off daily with a high-pressure water hose to reduce pollen buildup and give your vehicle a cleaner appearance. Even if you do hose down your car every day, you’ll still want to handwash your vehicle weekly, as you won’t get all the pollen off your exterior with just a rinse. Handwashing your vehicle with an approved soap once a week will help loosen the pollen’s grip on your paint and protect it from pollen-related damage.

3. Use Distilled Water, Microfiber Towels, and Approved Cleaning Products While You Wash Your Car

If you’re wondering how to clean pollen off your car, review our tips for washing a car during pollen season below:

• Rinse with Distilled Water and a High-Pressure Water Hose: Begin by parking your car out in an open space, and then use your high-pressure water hose on each panel of your vehicle. Next, spray any pollen you see off of your windshield, roof, and hood. If you can, try to use distilled water during your rinses. Since distilled water doesn’t contain any minerals or impurities that would stick to your vehicle’s exterior, using it can prevent water spots and streaks.
• Wash the vehicle with approved soap and microfiber cloth: After you’ve rinsed the vehicle, get a bucket filled with distilled water, a microfiber cloth, and an approved car wash soap. Mix the soap with water before dipping the microfiber cloth in it. Once the cloth is damp, handwash your car’s exterior, gently wiping any pollen you can see off of the vehicle. Make sure to use a microfiber cloth, as these cloths are gentle on paint and excel at trapping pollen.
• Remember to clean your interior: While you might not need to clean your interior once a week, doing so at least once or twice a month is still important during pollen season. Since you can track in lots of pollen while getting in your vehicle, wipe down hard surfaces with a damp microfiber cloth and use a vacuum on your seats and floors to remove any pollen.

4. Apply a Protective Coating

Sometimes, you won’t have time to promptly remove pollen, and wax can help reduce any potential damage the pollen could do to your paint. When you apply wax to your vehicle, it will add a protective barrier between your car’s paint and the pollen. This extra protection can reduce the negative impacts of pollen and can buy you some time before you need to handwash your vehicle again. 

Alongside being protective, wax also makes it easier for you to rinse pollen off your car. Since the wax stops pollen from digging its barbs into the paint, the pollen will wash off faster, even when you’re not able to do a proper handwash. An added bonus is that wax will make your car shine! Check with your local auto shop about what wax will work best for your car, as some cheap, low-quality car waxes can actually be abrasive and harm your vehicle’s paint. 

5. Use a Car Cover When Parking Outdoors

If you park outside during the spring, the best way to prevent pollen from getting all over your car is to place a car cover over it whenever you park. These covers prevent pollen from getting on your car’s exterior in the first place, and they can significantly reduce the amount of pollen buildup, as the only chance for pollen to get on it will be while you’re driving.

When you don’t have a car cover, you can reduce the amount of pollen that gets on your vehicle by paying attention to where you park. If there’s a parking spot right beside some trees or other flowering plants, look elsewhere for a parking space. Generally, areas with fewer plants and trees will be better, as you won’t be parking right beside pollen producers. 

Choose a Chapel Hill Tire for Vehicle Detailing Services in the NC Triangle

If you’d rather not wash your car yourself and are looking for car detailing services in Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. We offer interior and exterior detailing services, where we’ll thoroughly wash the interior and exterior of your car, ensuring your car is completely pollen-free by the time we’re done. Some of our detailing packages also include protective waxes, and we even offer mobile car wash and detailing services where we’ll come to you!

Check out our detailing services today. If you’re ready to receive our detailing services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to review our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you’ll likely want to check a prospective vehicle’s safety features. Unlike in the past, vehicles often have tons of safety features included in them, which can make it harder to keep track of what they do and if they’re worth having. To further complicate things, vehicle manufacturers frequently offer the same or similar safety systems with unique trademarked names.

As you look for a new vehicle or evaluate your current vehicle’s safety, review our guide to the main types of modern car safety features and how to know whether a vehicle is safe.

Breaking Down the Five Main Types of Modern Vehicle Safety Features

Modern vehicle safety features help protect drivers from a wide variety of potential risks. For example, many modern vehicles feature forward collision prevention, terrain safety, driver monitoring, parking, and lane assistance features to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians from accidents. 

Below, you can find a breakdown of the five main types of safety features in cars and what the most commonly included vehicle safety features do:

1. Forward Collision Prevention

Collision Prevention and Mitigation Safety Features

• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, helping you maintain steering control by restoring traction to your tires.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects slow or stopped traffic ahead and automatically applies the brakes if you fail to respond, helping to avoid or mitigate collisions.
• Brake Assist: Senses emergency braking situations and provides additional braking force to help you stop more quickly.
• Forward Collision Warning: Scans the road ahead and warns you if you’re about to collide with a slower-moving or stopped vehicle, giving you time to swerve or stop before you crash into the other car.
• Left Turn Crash Avoidance: Monitors oncoming traffic when you’re turning left at low speeds (such as at a traffic light) and automatically brakes if it detects you’re turning into the path of another vehicle.
• Traction Control: Adjusts engine power or applies brakes to individual wheels to prevent wheel slippage, helping your vehicle maintain traction on slippery surfaces.

Anti-Speeding Safety Features

• Curve Speed Warning: Alerts drivers when approaching a curve at a speed that may be too high for safe navigation.
• High-Speed Alert: Notifies drivers when they exceed a predetermined speed threshold, promoting adherence to speed limits.

Adaptive Safety Features

• Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and automatically adjusts it to keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Adaptive Headlights: Adjusts the direction and range of the headlights based on steering input and vehicle speed to enhance nighttime visibility.

2. Anti-Rollover, Braking, Tire Pressure, and Terrain Safety Features

Braking and Anti-Rollover Safety Features

The ABS, AEB, and traction control systems mentioned above not only help prevent collisions but also play a critical role in enhancing braking performance and preventing vehicle rollovers. Additionally, brake assist and electronic stability control contribute to maintaining control during emergency maneuvers.

Terrain Safety Features

• Temperature Warning: Alerts drivers when the outside temperature is at or below freezing, indicating potentially icy road conditions.

• Hill Descent Assist: Maintains a controlled speed when driving downhill without requiring the driver to apply the brakes, enhancing safety on steep declines.
• Hill Start Assist: Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline by temporarily holding the brakes as the driver transitions from the brake to the accelerator.

3. Driver State Monitoring and Communication Safety Features

Detection Safety Features

• Obstacle Detection: Senses slow-moving or stationary objects at low speeds and can warn the driver or apply brakes to avoid collisions. 
• Pedestrian Detection: Recognizes pedestrians in your vehicle’s path and can warn you or apply automatic braking to prevent or mitigate a collision.
• Bicycle detection: Identifies cyclists in or near your vehicle’s path and can alert you or apply automatic braking to prevent a collision.

Driver and Tire Pressure Monitoring Safety Features

• Tire Pressure Monitoring System: Monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver when it falls below the recommended level, helping to prevent blowouts and improve fuel efficiency.
• Drowsiness Alert: Monitors driver behavior for signs of fatigue, such as steering patterns, and provides alerts to encourage rest breaks.

4. Parking and Backing Assistance Safety Features

Backing Assistance

• Back-Up Camera: Displays the area directly behind the vehicle when in reverse, aiding in parking and preventing back-over accidents.
• Back-Up Warning: Alerts drivers to obstacles behind the vehicle while reversing, often through audible warnings or visual indicators.
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns drivers of approaching traffic from the sides when backing out of parking spaces, reducing the risk of collisions.

Parking Assistance

• Automatic Parallel Parking: Assists drivers in parallel parking by controlling steering while the driver manages acceleration and braking.
• Parking Sensors: Detects objects around the vehicle during parking maneuvers and provides warnings to prevent collisions.

5. Lane and Side Assistance Safety Features

Lane Assistance Safety Features

• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts drivers when the vehicle unintentionally drifts out of its lane without signaling, promoting safer lane-keeping.
• Lane Keeping Assist: Provides gentle steering inputs to help keep the vehicle within its lane if unintentional drifting is detected.

Side Assistance Safety Features

• Blind Spot Warning: Notifies drivers of vehicles in their blind spots, often through visual indicators on side mirrors, to assist with safe lane changes.
• Sideview Camera: Provides live video feed of the vehicle’s blind spots or sides when you turn on your turn signal or activate it manually, enhancing visibility during lane changes or turns.

Do Modern Safety Features Actually Improve Vehicle Safety?

While some drivers might find modern safety features to be overkill, they’ve actually been proven to improve driver safety in the United States. For instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that the average vehicle in 2012 had an estimated 56% lower fatality risk for occupants compared to an average vehicle in the late 1950s. 

NHTSA also estimates that new or improved safety features saved approximately 600,000 lives between 1960 and 2012. While NHTSA doesn’t have current estimates for the number of lives safety features developed after 2012 have saved, it’s quite likely that these new safety features in cars have saved many more lives.

What Modern Safety Features Do Vehicles Actually Need?

Though all of the previously covered modern vehicle safety features can keep you safer, NHTSA recommends drivers pick vehicles with the following driver assistance technologies:

• Forward collision warning
• Lane departure warning
• Crash imminent braking (a type of AEB)
• Dynamic brake support (another type of AEB)

In addition to checking for these car safety features, you can review NHTSA’s rating of a vehicle you’re interested in purchasing through their 5-Star Safety Ratings program. This program rates vehicles on a five-star scale, with a one-star rating being the lowest and a five-star rating the highest. If a vehicle has more stars, it will be safer than a vehicle with a lower star rating. You can use NHTSA’s rating page to search for a vehicle and check how safe it is.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Vehicle Safety Inspections in the NC Triangle

Alongside purchasing a vehicle with a five-star rating and modern safety features, you should still have your vehicle inspected regularly to ensure it’s safe to drive. If you need a vehicle safety inspection in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, or the surrounding areas, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Our inspections ensure your vehicle is working at its best and your safety features are performing as they should. Whether you need an NC state inspection or just want to check that all your safety features are working, we’ll be happy to help!

Check out our vehicle inspection services today. If you’re ready to receive an inspection or need any of our other repair services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

Expert Tips for Safety, Performance, and Value

When it’s time to invest in new tires, you deserve a guide that not only explains the technical details but also offers real-world, hands-on advice. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current set, this guide will help you navigate tire brands, specifications, and essential maintenance tips—so you can drive safely and confidently.

Why Buying New Tires Matters

New tires aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re a critical safety component that affects your vehicle’s performance, traction, and fuel efficiency. As tire tread wears down, stopping distances increase and handling can suffer. By investing in a new set of tires, you gain:

• Enhanced Safety: Better grip and shorter stopping distances keep you in control.
• Improved Performance: New tires deliver sharper handling and smoother rides.
• Optimal Fuel Efficiency: Quality tires are designed to reduce rolling resistance.
• Long-Term Savings: Investing in reputable brands and proper maintenance (like regular rotations and alignments) can extend tire life and save money over time.

Choosing the Right Tire Brand and Model

The “big 5” tire brands—Goodyear, Michelin, Continental, Bridgestone, and Pirelli—have earned a reputation for quality and durability. If you’re not sure where to start, these brands are a safe bet.

Another consideration is the existing tire brand on your car. If replacing only one of your tires, it is best to match the new tire brand and specifications to the remaining three. Your tires are designed to work together. If you get a tire that has a different tread pattern or thickness, it can begin to pull—affecting your vehicle’s handling and your tire tread wear.

Understanding Tire Specifications

Knowing your tire specs is key to making an informed decision. Here are the critical elements you need to understand:

• Tire Size: Found on the sidewall (e.g., P225/70R16), this indicates the tire’s width, aspect ratio, construction, and wheel diameter. Check your vehicle’s door jamb or owner’s manual for the recommended size. For extra information, read our guide on how to read your tire’s sidewall.
• Treadwear Rating: A higher number generally suggests a longer lifespan, although real-world mileage can vary.
• Speed Rating and Load Index: These numbers ensure your tires can handle your vehicle’s performance and weight requirements.
• Production Date: Always check the manufacturing code—tires should ideally be less than two years old to avoid issues with rubber degradation.

Specialty Tires and Seasonal Options

A local tire shop will be able to connect you with any specialty tires you might want or need. Some vehicle brands—such as Tesla—require special tires that you will not find just anywhere. Additionally, you can also find tires tailored to certain seasons and needs:

• All-Season Tires: Versatile and suitable for a variety of conditions, making them a popular choice for daily driving.
• Winter/Snow Tires: Designed to perform in cold, icy, or snowy conditions, they provide superior traction when you need it most.
• Summer Tires: Offer enhanced performance in warm, dry conditions but are not recommended for colder weather.
• High-Performance Options: If you’re looking for improved handling and a sportier feel, ultra-high-performance tires are available. Just remember that proper alignment and rotation are key to maximizing their benefits.

While most drivers choose standard and all-season tires, you can find the specialty tires you are looking for at a local tire shop. 

Comparing the Tires for Your Car

We would recommend our Tire Finder tool. Unlike other tire comparison tools, the Tire Finder is purely informational and functional—it is not a marketing tool and will not ask for your contact details before showing you the tire information you need. 

The Tire Finder will show you the available tires that match your vehicle’s make, model, year, and tire specifications. In addition, you can quickly overview the tire prices, features, and brands. For more detailed insight, you can click on the tire’s page for out-the-door pricing, the tire description, and more. If you need additional information or support, you can work with a local tire specialist for personalized insight. 

Convenient Tire Buying at Chapel Hill Tire

The experts at Chapel Hill Tire have revolutionized the tire buying experience for our customers. We make it easy for you to find the tires you need for your vehicle and buy them online. Best of all, we offer same-day or next-day appointments, helping you avoid dealership service delays. 
Our mechanics proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 10 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. You can make your appointment, browse our deals, or give us a call to get started today!

When the heat is on, a malfunctioning car AC isn’t just inconvenient—it can be dangerous. Whether your AC is blowing warm air or not blowing any air at all, this comprehensive guide will walk you through diagnosing the problem, performing basic fixes, and preventing future issues. Drawing on years of field experience, we’ve combined technical insights with practical, real-world advice to help you get your air conditioning back on track.

How Your Car’s AC System Works

Before troubleshooting, it helps to understand the basic cycle of your car’s air conditioning system. Most systems operate in five essential steps:

1. Compression:
   The compressor compresses the refrigerant, turning it into a high-pressure gas.
2. Condensation:
   The high-pressure gas flows to the condenser (located near the radiator) where it cools and condenses into a liquid.
3. Expansion:
   The liquid passes through an expansion valve or orifice tube, lowering its pressure and temperature.
4. Evaporation:
   In the evaporator, the cold refrigerant absorbs heat from your car’s interior, cooling the air.
5. Recirculation:
   The refrigerant returns to the compressor to repeat the cycle.

Understanding this process helps pinpoint where issues might occur when your car AC is not working.

Common AC Problems and Their Symptoms

1. No Airflow at All

Symptoms:

• Complete absence of air from the vents

Likely Causes:

• Blown Fuse: A single blown fuse can stop the blower motor from operating.
• Blower Motor Failure: The motor or its resistor assembly may be faulty, preventing air from circulating.

Troubleshooting:

• Check the Fuses:
  • Locate the Fuse Box: Most vehicles have fuse boxes under the dashboard or in the engine compartment.

• Identify the Correct Fuse: Refer to your owner’s manual to find the fuse assigned to the AC or blower motor.
• Inspect and Replace: Look for signs of a blown fuse (such as a broken filament or blackened appearance). If you find one, replace it with a fuse of the exact same amperage rating.
• Test the Blower Motor:
  • Turn On the AC: With the AC set to high, listen for a consistent humming noise from the blower motor.
  • Observe Its Operation: If the motor is silent or only produces a weak hum, gently tap it with a tool. Sometimes a temporary response indicates the motor is failing and likely needs replacement.

2. AC Blowing Warm or Not Cold Enough Air

Symptoms:

• Air is warm or only slightly cool, even on hot days.

Likely Causes:

• Low Refrigerant or Leaks: Insufficient refrigerant due to leaks prevents proper cooling.
• Faulty Compressor or Compressor Clutch: The compressor may not engage properly or lack power.
• Dirty or Clogged Condenser: Debris obstructing the condenser hinders the cooling process.

Detailed Troubleshooting:

• Check Refrigerant Levels:
  • Use a Manifold Gauge Set: Attach the gauge to the low and high side service ports (refer to your vehicle’s manual for location).
  • Interpret the Readings: Compare the pressure readings to manufacturer specifications. Low pressure usually signals a leak that must be repaired before recharging.

• Inspect the Compressor:
  • Listen for the Clutch Click: With the engine running and AC on high, you should hear a clicking sound as the compressor clutch engages.
  • Verify Electrical Supply: If the click is absent, use a voltmeter to ensure the compressor is receiving power. A lack of power may point to an electrical fault or a failing compressor.
• Examine the Condenser:
  • Visual Inspection: Look for debris (like leaves, dirt, or bugs) blocking the condenser fins.
  • Clean the Area: Use a soft brush or a gentle stream of water to clear any obstructions, ensuring efficient heat dissipation.

3. Reduced Airflow or Weak Cooling

Symptoms:

• Noticeable drop in airflow, even if the AC is running.

Likely Causes:

• Clogged or Dirty Cabin Air Filter: A dirty filter restricts air circulation.
• Electrical or Sensor Issues: Faulty wiring or malfunctioning sensors can cause erratic AC behavior.

Detailed Troubleshooting:

• Inspect the Cabin Air Filter:
  • Locate the Filter: Usually found in the glove compartment or under the dashboard (check your owner’s manual for exact location).
  • Examine for Debris: Remove the filter and inspect it. If it’s clogged with dust and debris, replace it to restore proper airflow.

• Review Electrical Connections:
  • Check for Warning Lights: Look for any dashboard alerts indicating sensor or wiring problems.
  • Professional Diagnostics: If you suspect an electrical issue, consider having a technician perform a detailed diagnostic to check for faulty wiring or sensor failures.

Expert Field Advice

Drawing on years of hands-on experience, here are some practical tips for those not comfortable with more advanced troubleshooting:

• Begin with the Basics:
  Often, simple issues like a blown fuse or a dirty filter are the culprits behind AC failures.
• Listen and Observe:
  The sound of the compressor clutch and the quality of airflow provide critical clues. A missing or inconsistent click can signal deeper problems.
• Follow a Methodical Approach:
  Address one component at a time to avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary repairs.
• Know When to Seek Help:
  If basic troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, a detailed diagnostic by a professional can save time and prevent further damage.

Chapel Hill Tire: Local Automotive AC Repair

When your car’s air conditioner stops working, the experts at Chapel Hill Tire can help. We offer AC recharge services to help find the leaks in your refrigerant system. Our professionals will then work with you to create a repair plan that will get your AC system working like new. We proudly serve drivers from throughout the greater Triangle area with our 9 locations across Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Durham, Apex, and Carrboro. You can make your AC repair appointment here online to get started today!

If you have run-flat tires, you might be wondering if it’s safe to patch them after they’ve been punctured. While some run-flat tires can be repaired safely, they often need to be replaced for a variety of reasons. As you decide whether you should get a run-flat repair or a full tire replacement, review our guide about how far you can drive on run-flat tires and whether you should try to repair them.

What Are Run-Flat Tires?

Run-flat tires refer to tires that are designed to be driven on for a short distance after they’ve been punctured. If you get a flat while driving and you have run-flat tires, you can drive on the flat while you take your vehicle to a repair shop or a safer location.

The two main types of run-flat tires are self-supporting run-flat tires and support ring run-flat tires. A run-flat with a self-supporting system contains a reinforced sidewall that supports the car even when there’s air loss. In contrast, run-flats with a support ring system usually feature a ring of hard rubber that can support a vehicle’s weight following air loss.

Can You Drive on a Run-Flat Tire?

You can drive on a run-flat tire after a puncture, but you’ll need to follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for how far and how fast you can drive.

How Far Can You Drive on a Run-Flat Tire?

In general, run-flat tires are only designed to be driven on for about 50 miles after a puncture. While you drive on a punctured run-flat tire, it’s also recommended that you keep your speed at or under 50 mph. That being said, some run-flat tires may have a different maximum distance or speed guidelines, so always check your tires’ manufacturer’s recommendations as well. 

Even though most run-flat tires will take you 50 miles, you’ll damage your tire and its internal structure the longer you drive on them. Driving the full 50 miles could also further damage your wheel and its parts. Instead of trying to get the full 50 miles out of your punctured run-flat tire, drive slowly while you take your car to the closest repair shop to avoid further damage to the tire and its wheel.

Can You Patch a Run-Flat Tire? Can You Plug a Run-Flat Tire?

You can sometimes patch or plug a run-flat tire that’s been punctured, but whether it can be repaired will depend on the tire’s manufacturer and the extent of the damage. Most tire manufacturers allow at least one repair of their run-flat tires, but some may invalidate your tire’s warranty if you try to repair it.

In terms of damage, a run-flat tire has a higher chance of being repairable if it’s been punctured by a small object, like a nail. Typically, a small puncture is repairable as long as you only drove a short distance after the puncture and the tire hasn’t been extensively damaged during the drive to the repair shop. 

If your tire has lost all its air pressure or the tire has extensive internal or external damage, you’ll almost always need to replace it. Additionally, like other tires, a run-flat tire can only be repaired if the puncture is located in the middle of the tire. If the puncture is near the shoulder of the tire, patching or plugging it won’t be effective.

What Run-Flat Tires Can Be Repaired by Manufacturer?

Run-flat tire manufacturers have different recommendations for whether their tires can be repaired. While you should always double-check whether a manufacturer’s recommendations have changed, you can review the main tire manufacturers’ policies about repairing run-flat tires below:

• BFGoodrich: Repairs of BFGoodrich run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they have a one-repair maximum.
• Bridgestone: Repairs of Bridgestone run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they can only be repaired if the tire has maintained at least 15 PSI.
• Continental: Repairs of Continental run-flat tires are not recommended, with a repair invalidating any of their tire warranties.
• Dunlop: Repairs of Dunlop run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they have a one-repair maximum.
• Firestone: Repairs of Firestone run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they can only be repaired if the tire has maintained at least 15 PSI.
• Goodyear: Repairs of Goodyear run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they have a one-repair maximum.
• Hankook: Repairs of Hankook run-flat tires are permitted.
• Kumho: Repairs of Kumho run-flat tires are permitted.
• Michelin: Repairs of Michelin run-flat tires are permitted, with the manufacturer stating they have a one-repair maximum.
• Pirelli: Repairs of Pirelli run aren’t recommended.
• Yokohama: Repairs of Yokohama run-flat tires aren’t recommended.

When your run-flat tire manufacturer does allow their run-flats to be repaired, you should keep in mind that your tire will still need a comprehensive interior and exterior inspection before any repairs. If the inspection reveals extensive damage, you’ll likely need to replace your tires. Never try to repair a run-flat tire if an inspection has deemed it unrepairable, as it could put your safety at risk while you drive and damage your vehicle.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Run-Flat Tire Repair Services in the Triangle

If you’re looking for run-flat tire repair services in Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire can help. Our team of certified mechanics can perform a full inspection on your run-flat tires to determine whether they’re repairable or need to be replaced. When your run-flat tire is beyond the point of repair, our tire finder tool makes it easy to find new tires, and our team can provide you with recommendations before installing them.Learn more about our tire patch and tire services today. If you need one of our tire repair or replacement services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

If you’re dealing with a small tire puncture, you have a couple of tire repair options you can try before you invest in a new set of tires. Both tire plugs and tire patches can be effective ways to repair small punctures on tires, but they do have some key differences. Before you purchase one of these options, learn more about the differences between tire patches and tire plugs. 

What Is a Tire Plug?

Tire plugs are flexible and sticky pieces of rubber designed to plug holes in tires. Once the plug is inserted into a puncture, it will start to expand, and you’ll just need to adjust the plug until it prevents any air from leaking from it. 

What Is a Tire Patch?

A tire patch is a flat piece of rubber installed inside a tire, with adhesive holding the patch in place over the puncture. Like tire plugs, tire patches are designed to repair small punctures. 

How Is a Tire Plug Vs Patch Different?

Tire patches and tire plugs have a few differences, such as the repair process, their safety, and the right time to use them. As you decide between the two options, review our guide to the differences between tire plugs vs. patches below:

1. Plug Vs Patch Tire Repair Process

A tire plug tends to be a faster repair process, as you don’t have to install the patch inside the tire. Instead, you’ll use a reamer tool that you’ll insert into the puncture, using it to clean out debris and enlargen the puncture to a size appropriate for the plug. Next, you’ll use a plug insertion tool to insert the plug and apply adhesive to it. 

Usually, you’ll need to insert the plug insertion tool about two-thirds into the tire before you pull it quickly back. Once it’s been pulled back, the plug should be in place, and you’ll just need to trim the plug so it’s flush with your tire tread. You may need to move the plug around a little bit to get it in the right position, but you can know the plug is inserted correctly when no air is coming out.

While tire plugs can be installed in just a few minutes, tire patches tend to take more time. A tire patch repair takes longer since you have to take the wheel off and remove the tire from the rim so that you can reach the tire’s inner liner. Once you have access to the inner liner, you’ll scuff the puncture wound to make it easier for the patch to adhere to the surface. Next, you’ll apply rubber cement to the patch and the surface area.

When the rubber cement has dried, you’ll press the patch over the puncture and seal it. After the patch has sealed your puncture, you’ll need to remount the tire onto the rim and put your vehicle’s wheels back on. You’ll also need to inflate the tire again, with the entire patching process often taking longer than a plug. If you go to a repair shop for a tire patch, you can expect the service to take about 20 minutes.

2. Tire Plug Vs Patch Cost

Tire patch and tire plug kits cost around $10, without any major differences in price between the two types. However, some kits might cost between $20 to $50 if they include more tools and materials.

If you’re wondering about tire patch vs tire plug repair costs at a shop, tire patch repairs tend to cost a bit more than tire plugs due to the extra labor they require. 

3. Tire Plug Vs. Patch Durability

If a tire plug has been properly installed, it may last around 25,000 miles, meaning most drivers can expect the plug to last between 7 to 10 years. Typically, correctly installed tire patches will last for about 7 to 10 years, too. As a result, you’ll usually need to replace the tire before the patch or plug stops working. Keep in mind, however, that both plugs and patches can fail earlier, especially when they’re not properly installed, and you may need a new one earlier than expected. 

4. Patching Tire Vs Plugging Tire Safety

On average, tire patches tend to be safer than tire plugs. Since tire patches are attached to your tire via adhesive, they’re more secure than tire plugs, which can begin to loosen. If a tire plug loosens, you could get a flat tire while you’re driving.

5. Tire Patch Vs. Plug When to Use

Typically, tire plugs are better for times when you need an emergency repair on your vehicle. For example, if you’re on a road trip and get a small puncture on one of your tires,  you can quickly plug the hole without having to go to a repair shop. Since tire patches tend to be safer, they’re better for punctures that occur when you have the time to perform the slightly more complicated repair. 

Can You Patch or Plug a Tire Twice?

It’s not recommended to apply more than one patch or plug to a tire. Though it can be tempting to patch or plug a second puncture in your tire, it can increase your risk of a blowout while also negatively impacting your tire’s speed rating.

When Is It Not Safe to Use a Tire Patch or Tire Plug?

Tire patches and plugs can only safely be applied to the crown areas of a tire. If your tire’s shoulder or sidewall is damaged, tire patches and plugs aren’t safe repair options. You’ll also never want to apply a tire patch or plug to punctures larger than 0.25 inches in diameter, and they shouldn’t be applied to tires that have other problems, such as sidewall blisters, cracks, or bulges.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Tire Patching and Tire Plugging Repair Services in the Triangle

If you need tire plugging or tire patching services in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding Triangle area, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Our technicians regularly provide tire patching and tire plugging services to drivers, ensuring their tires are safe to drive on before they leave. When a patch or plug won’t cut it, you can use our tire finder tool to compare different tires, and our team can quickly swap out your old tires for new ones.

Learn more about our tire patch and tire services today. If you need one of our tire repair or replacement services, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!

If you keep getting flat tires, you’ll want to solve the issue as soon as possible. Besides throwing a wrench in your plans for the day, flat tires can impact your vehicle’s handling and make it more likely you get into an accident. Driving on a flat tire can also cause further damage to the tire and bend or warp your rims. 

As you try to avoid flat tires in the future, take a moment to learn more about the main reasons why flat tires occur.

Why Do I Keep Getting Flat Tires? 5 Reasons for Flat Tires

From punctures and faulty valve stems to dry rot and aging, there are several common causes of flat tires. If your tire went flat for no reason you can think of, review the five most common causes of flat tires below:

1. Punctured Tires

The most obvious cause of a flat tire is a puncture. If you can see a nail or other object sticking into your tire, it needs to be repaired, or your tire will keep losing pressure. Usually, a punctured tire is pretty easy to spot, and if you do notice a puncture, you shouldn’t drive until you can have the tire repaired or replaced. Before you drive to a mechanic, make sure to swap out your punctured tire with a spare.

A mechanic can repair your tire if the puncture is 1/2 an inch away or more from the edge from the edge of the tire tread. However, punctures that are closer to the edge aren’t repairable, and the tire will need to be replaced. While you can’t always stop punctures from occurring, they’re more likely if you drive over potholes, on a road’s shoulder, or in areas without properly paved roads.

2. Old Tire Age

Over time, the rubber in a tire will degrade, even if you keep your tires in great condition. If your tire went flat for no reason and continues to go flat despite nothing looking wrong, chances are your tires have aged past the point of repair. The rubber degradation will cause your tires to crack and lose pressure, leading to constant flats. Since these cracks can be hard to spot, you’ll often need a professional to check if degraded rubber is at fault.

At maximum, a tire might make it to 10 years old, but most tires need to be replaced after the five-year mark. When your tires are old and you keep getting flats, you’ll likely need to replace your tires with a new set.

3. Faulty Tire Pressure Monitoring System

Your vehicle’s tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) monitors tire pressure and should alert you if the pressure is too low via a light on your dashboard. However, a faulty or damaged TMPS may not detect low pressure in your tires, causing you to drive on tires despite them not having enough pressure. Driving on tires without enough pressure can damage rims and sidewalls, reduce your vehicle’s handling, hurt your gas mileage, and cause your tire tread to wear down faster.

If your tire is flat but your TMPS isn’t alerting you to it, you can be fairly certain the TPMS needs to be fixed. You might also manually check your tire pressure with a pressure gauge if you suspect your TPMS is inaccurate. Since fixing a TPMS isn’t very DIY friendly, you’ll want to bring your car into a repair shop for help.

4. Dry Rot

Dry occurs when a tire is exposed to unfavorable conditions for too long, such as extreme temperatures, too much direct sunlight, or being parked in one place for too long. Low tire pressure and exposure to harmful chemicals can also cause dry rot. If your tire is affected by dry rot, the rubber will be more brittle, causing cracks and even damage to your sidewall.

Since dry rot isn’t repairable, you’ll need to have a mechanic replace your tires if they find that dry rot is affecting your tire. If you want to prevent dry rot from causing a flat, try to avoid the main causes of dry rot described above.

5. Damaged Valve Stem

A tire’s valve stem helps to regulate air pressure, with the core of the stem allowing air to pass in and out while the stem’s cap stops debris from getting in the core. Damage to your valve stem can occur for multiple reasons, such as road salt, age, moisture, UV rays, and heat. When the issue isn’t fixed, your tire will leak and constantly lose pressure, leading to a flat tire. 

If a valve stem breaks, it’ll need to be replaced. A mechanic should be able to perform the replacement fairly quickly, solving the leak and any tire pressure issues caused by it.

Choose Chapel Hill Tire for Flat Tire Repair and Replacement Services in Raleigh

When you’re looking for tire repair services in Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, or the surrounding NC Triangle, Chapel Hill Tire has you covered. Our team regularly inspects and repairs flat tires, keeping you informed every step of the way. If you end up needing to replace your tires after a flat, our team can recommend options, and you can use our tire finder tool to compare different tires. You’ll also want to check out our coupons to see how much you can save on our services!Learn more about our flat tire repair services today. If you need a new set of tires or a flat tire repair, please make an appointment at one of our convenient locations in the Triangle area.