SUV summer driving tips for fun and safety

With summer in full swing, here are some SUV summer driving tips for your trip to the cottage, to ensure your fun and safety.

-Don’t overload your SUV for that summer cottage trip. Be sure the weight you are carrying complies with the car manufacturer’s recommendations.

-Check your tire pressures at least every two weeks and check them when the tires are cold.  If you are carrying extra load, make sure the pressure is adjusted accordingly.

-Never ‘bleed” or reduce air pressure when tires are hot from driving, as it is normal for pressure to increase above recommended cold pressure under these circumstances.

-In case of an impact or perforation, have the tire inspected by professional technicians. The tire should be de-mounted and inspected inside and out.

-Tires should always be rotated every 10,000 to 15,000 km  (5,000 to 8,000 for high performance tires or 4×4 vehicles) and rotation pattern indicated by the vehicle manufacturer should be followed.

-Wheel alignment and tire balance should be verified every 15,000 km.  Abnormalities of different road conditions can cause vibrations and irregular tire wear.