Tire Pressure 101: The Secret to Safer, Smoother, and Smarter Driving
When it comes to vehicle maintenance, tire pressure is one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects. While it may seem like a minor detail, maintaining the correct tire pressure — as specified by the manufacturer in pounds per square inch (PSI) — plays a major role in your safety, fuel efficiency, and the overall performance of your vehicle.
1.) Safety First
Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can compromise your safety on the road. Tires that are not at the correct PSI are more likely to cause blowouts, especially at high speeds or in extreme temperatures. Low tire pressure can also reduce traction, making it harder to stop quickly or navigate sharp turns, particularly in wet or icy conditions. Properly inflated tires ensure the best contact between your tires and the road, which helps maintain control and reduce the risk of accidents.
2.) Better Fuel Efficiency
One of the simplest ways to save money at the pump is to maintain proper tire pressure. When tires are under-inflated, they create more rolling resistance — meaning your engine has to work harder and use more fuel to move the vehicle. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, for every 1 PSI drop in tire pressure, gas mileage can decrease by 0.2%. Keeping your tires inflated to the recommended level helps your vehicle run efficiently and cuts down on unnecessary fuel costs.
3.) Prolonged Tire Life — Get the most out of your tires!
Tires are a significant investment and keeping them at the right pressure helps them wear evenly. Under-inflated tires tend to wear out on the edges, while over-inflated tires wear out more quickly in the center. Either way, improper inflation leads to premature tire wear, which means you’ll be replacing tires more often than necessary. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure can significantly extend the lifespan of your tires.
4.) Improved Vehicle Performance
Tire pressure affects more than just safety and fuel consumption — it also influences how your car handles. When your tires are at the recommended PSI, your steering, braking, and overall ride quality are optimized. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, properly inflated tires give you better control and a smoother driving experience.
Final Thoughts
Checking your tire pressure takes just a few minutes but offers long-term benefits in safety, cost savings, and performance. Most vehicles have a recommended PSI listed in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month, and especially before long trips or major weather changes.
Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road. Keeping them properly inflated is a simple but powerful way to ensure a safer, smoother, and more economical drive. CONTACT AS NOW FOR A FREE QUOTE!
2025 REELIN’ FOR RYDER BASS TOURNAMENT - 100% PAYOUT
A few weeks ago, while planning for “Fishin’ for Kids”, I stumbled upon a bass tournament I had never heard of before on my social media feed, and it piqued my interest. I reached out to the organizers, who were complete strangers but have since become friends. We’ve had extensive conversations about their experiences, and what I learned was truly heartbreaking but also moving. They have chosen to turn their pain into something beautiful, much like my friend Burt Poche. I genuinely believe that Ryder, Daniel, and Shelby will significantly impact many people's lives in their journey to healing.
Ryder Kade Vosbury entered the world on July 19, 2022, weighing 7 lbs 14 oz, a beautiful and healthy baby boy. His arrival brought immense joy, especially to his older sister, Paisley, as they began to cherish the moments of their new family of four. The laughter of their children filled their home. Daniel could not wait to share his passion of fishing with Ryder. They started planning family vacations, dreaming of the memories they would create together. They envisioned beach trips where Ryder would build sandcastles alongside Paisley, and family hikes where we would explore nature together, capturing every precious moment on camera.
However, November 20, 2022, is a date forever etched in their hearts. It began like any other day, but it quickly turned into a nightmare. Their alarm goes off, they get up to start the day and the first thing they do is check on their baby. But this morning quickly turned into a nightmare, waking up to find their precious child cold and lifeless. It was a moment that altered their lives irrevocably. The shock and disbelief were overwhelming as they desperately tried to revive him, doing everything they could while waiting for the medics. But despite their frantic efforts, it wasn’t enough. They rushed him to the ER, but despite their hopes and prayers, he didn’t make it. They left their four-month-old at the hospital and drove home to face a new reality is a pain that lingers, a wound that feels as fresh today as it did that fateful day. I can’t imagine the pain.
Daniel and Shelby Vonsbury, Grand Cane Louisiana
Many of us often overlook the value of life, and I admit that I am one of those people.
Everyday interactions can trigger memories they never anticipated, like comments about their daughter or suggestions for another child, each one feeling like a blow to the gut. The world continues to move forward, but they told me they often find themselves stuck in a moment of profound loss. The events of that day replay in their minds endlessly, haunting them with “what-ifs” and unanswered questions. Even after two years, at times the pain remains like it just happened yesterday.
Each holiday season brings its own set of challenges; waking up every Christmas to an empty stocking is a stark reminder of the joy that was lost. The laughter that once filled their home is now often replaced with silence, and the memories they created with Ryder are bittersweet, tinged with sorrow.
Their lives have been irrevocably changed, and they now navigate a journey that no parent should ever have to endure. The path of grief is winding and unpredictable, filled with moments of despair and fleeting glimpses of hope. In their search for healing, they started the “Reelin’ for Ryder” Bass Tournament as a way to honor Ryder, heal, and keep his memory alive.
“Reelin For Ryder” will held tomorrow at North Bend State Park.
WRITTEN BY: KEVIN SMITH
George’s Journey: A Childs Triumph and Inspiration to Others
George is a cheerful four-year-old whose journey began long before he entered the world. His family discovered that he had a Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) and underdeveloped lungs while he was still in the womb. After his birth, George spent an incredible eight months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in Texas, where he faced numerous challenges, including 10 days on ECMO and several surgeries, such as an ostomy, tracheostomy, and the insertion of a feeding tube. Today, he navigates life with Williams Syndrome, Pulmonary Hypertension, and Congenital Hypothyroidism.
At the age of three, George began attending CHRISTUS Kids Clinic to help him achieve developmental milestones, engage in daily activities, and foster his independence. In physical therapy, he focuses on building strength, balance, and walking skills. Occupational therapy helps him enhance his sensory processing abilities, teaching him how to transition between preferred and less enjoyable activities, as well as techniques for self-soothing when he feels upset. In speech therapy, he works on improving his language skills, chewing, swallowing, and food tolerance. This collaborative effort involves George, his family, nurses, and therapists, all working together to support this remarkable young boy as he grows and learns every day.
George is making tremendous strides, and we are excited to see his future unfold! His outgoing and lively spirit shines through his love for music and clapping, and his infectious enthusiasm brightens the room.
Thanks to the support from Children’s Miracle Network hospitals, CHRISTUS Kids Clinic is equipped with cutting-edge resources that empower George and other children to thrive and enjoy their lives to the fullest.
All proceeds from Fishin' For Kids Bass Tournament provides life-saving equipment and pediatric therapy for kids in our communities, like George.
THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS, WE RAISED MORE THAN $70,000.
WRITTEN BY: KEVIN SMITH
FISHIN’ FOR KIDS Continues to Make a Big Splash for Local Kids
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our exceptional sponsors, donors of auction items, volunteers, and anglers. FISHIN’ FOR KIDS has evolved into the largest charity bass tournament on Toledo Bend, a remarkable milestone achieved through countless hours of commitment and effort. Our team and sponsors acknowledge the crucial role we play in enhancing the lives of children. Many of our sponsors are businesses that we work with, who embody strong ethical principles that represent the sentiments of all involved. It is a genuine honor and privilege to positively influence the lives of these children and their families.
Over the years, we have had the opportunity to meet many children and their parents whose lives have been positively impacted by our initiatives. The obstacles they encounter can be profoundly distressing, yet their strength and determination are truly motivating. Together, we have created something extraordinary that significantly benefits families and children within our communities. Participating in this tournament holds deep significance, and it is an honor to support such a noble cause each year.
The journey commenced with Randy Despino, who felt a compelling urge to enhance the lives of children in our region. What began as a modest concept has flourished into the premier Bass Fishing Tournament on Toledo Bend.
I urge everyone to take action and not wait for change to occur. Strive to make the world a better place and actively seek the transformation you wish to see in the world. I have discovered that there is no greater fulfillment than helping others.
We are profoundly thankful to our supporters, sponsors, and volunteers who have accompanied us on this transformative journey of our charity.
100% OFF ALL SPONSOR AND DONATED AUCTION ITEMS PROCEEDS GOT TO LOCAL CHILDREN’S MIRACLE NETWORK HOSPITALS!
WRITTEN BY KEVIN SMITH
Tread Wear Guide: How to Check Tire Tread Depth
This article aims to address prevalent concerns regarding tire replacement, which include the following points:
Age: Tires should be replaced after six years, regardless of whether they are still within the mileage warranty or if their tread depth remains acceptable. Further information on tire age can be found in our detailed discussion.
Damage: Tires exhibiting sidewall punctures or cracks cannot be safely repaired; thus, any tire with sidewall damage should be replaced. Additional insights on tire shoulders and sidewalls are available for review.
Tread Depth: This article elaborates on the concept of tread depth, the minimum required for tires, and how to determine when it is necessary to purchase new tires.
1. Tire Penny Test: A Simple Method for Checking Tread Depth
What is the most straightforward method to assess tread depth without using a gauge? Many would agree that the penny test is the simplest approach. To check your tire tread using a penny, insert the coin into the tread groove with Lincoln's head facing upside down and towards you. If you can see the entirety of Lincoln's head, this indicates that your tire tread depth is below 2/32 inch, signaling that it is time for a replacement.
2. Built-in Tread Wear Indicators
Most contemporary tires are equipped with built-in visual markers that indicate when they need to be replaced. These markers, known as tire wear bars, indicators, or markers, are integrated into the tire itself. For instance, Continental tires feature a D-W-S embossing, which signifies that when the 'S' is worn, the tire is no longer safe for snowy conditions; when the 'W' is worn, it is unsafe for wet driving; and when the 'D' is worn, it is no longer safe for dry conditions.
These built-in indicators are evenly distributed across the tire's tread, allowing for easy visibility as the tread approaches the 2/32 inch threshold. When the tread level aligns with the wear bar, it is time to consider replacing the tire. For further information on tread wear indicators, please refer to our article on interpreting tread wear indicator bars.
3. Tire Tread Depth Gauge
Although the coin test and tread bar indicators are effective methods for assessing tire tread depth, the most accurate approach is to utilize a device known as a tire tread depth gauge. While a tire gauge may not be essential unless one has a penchant for gadgets and mathematics, it is certainly a useful tool.
Tire tread depth gauges can be purchased online or at local auto parts retailers, and they are remarkably simple to operate.
To measure the tread depth, insert the probe into the deepest groove of the tire. Next, press the probe's shoulders flat against the tread and read the measurement. It is a straightforward process.
SUMMER TRAVEL TIPS
During the global pandemic, America’s roadways have been the most popular means of travel. According to a survey conducted by Chevrolet and research firm Harris Poll, 80% of those asked said that going on a road trip had been one of their happiest moments since March 2020.
During the global pandemic, America’s roadways have been the most popular means of travel. According to a survey conducted by Chevrolet and research firm Harris Poll, 80% of those asked said that going on a road trip had been one of their happiest moments since March 2020.
41% percent said they road tripped to a place they’ve never been before, which underscores an important element that’s often left out of the planning process: preparing the family vehicle.
