Practicing good driving habits will keep your tires in tip-top shape and will sustain tire life. In addition to monthly tire pressure check-ups, it’s a good idea for all motorists to install a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). These systems can help detect loss of inflation pressure and prevent damage to the tire. Another way for drivers to keep a close watch on their wheels, TPMS’s signal when tires are 25% under inflated – a federal regulation. However, this warning may be too late to ward off damage caused by under inflation to some vehicles, which is why these systems are not a replacement for monthly tire pressure checks. Other good driving habits that will protect your tires: • Obey speed limits and the speed index for your tires. • Buckle your seat belt. • Don’t overwork your car: Avoid starting, stopping and turning too abruptly. • Avoid potholes and debris in the road. • Don’t run over curbs or roll into curbs when making turns or parking. • Don’t overload your vehicle and check your owner’s manual to see what the maximum recommended load is. The easiest way to avoid vehicle and tire damage is by taking the necessary precautions to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Remember to always gauge tire pressure and treat your tires and rims like they are the most important part of your vehicle.