According to the gauge, 70% of drivers in the United States had not checked their tire pressure in the previous 30 days, despite the industry’s recommendation to do so at least once a month. In addition, 73% had not filled their vehicle with fluid and two in three had not cleaned their vehicle, inside or outside.

Additionally, only one in three Americans (32%) surveyed took their vehicle on scheduled trips, which is useful for keeping fluids flowing, the battery charged, and to help spot any mechanical issues that may require caring attention. ‘a professional. Overall, one in five Americans (22%) admitted not having performed any maintenance on their vehicle in the past 30 days.

“As many of us get behind the wheel more regularly, we need our vehicles to run smoothly and safely so that we can focus on the road ahead,” said Daniel Brown, Senior Technical Services Specialist, Hankook Tire America Corp. “That’s why Hankook Tire encourages drivers to add routine maintenance to their spring cleaning rituals. A vehicle in good running condition will help many of us regain a sense of freedom and adventure.

Tips for maintaining March vehicles
With the prospect of better days on the road, Hankook offers some helpful tips, both on the driveway and on the road, for safe and reliable driving:

• Check the tires: Since tire pressure can change dramatically as the outside temperature fluctuates, it is important to check tire pressure at least once a month to make sure it meets your vehicle’s recommended PSI. Low tire pressure can lead to poor performance, premature and uneven wear and higher rolling resistance, which can impact fuel efficiency. And a simple penny test can check the tread. A shallow tread depth can also have an impact on the handling of the vehicle and lead to hydroplaning, a puncture or an explosion. If the tires show signs of damage, excessive wear or aging, it is important to have your tires checked by a reputable service center to ensure their safety and best performance.
• Spring cleaning: Take advantage of milder temperatures to thoroughly clean your vehicle, inside and out. A clean car does more than shine: In colder climates, it’s important to wash off harmful chemicals like road salt that can corrode critical components under your vehicle and dull the vehicle’s paint coat if it doesn’t. is not cleaned Interior cleaning can also prevent debris from entering certain components such as seat adjustment mechanisms, floor air vents and window switches, which can reduce functionality if not not kept clean.
• Under the hood: Check that all fluids in your vehicle are at the proper levels, such as oil, windshield washer fluid, and coolant, and that all of your lights are in working order. If in doubt about checking or adding fluid, or how to change the lights, your local store can usually administer these services inexpensively.
• Weekly demoulds: Take your vehicle out for a weekly ride to keep the battery charged, fluids in circulation, and to prevent the tires from flattening on the driveway. It’s also a good opportunity to spot any mechanical issues that might require additional professional attention.
• Prepare for potholes: After a long winter of constant snow, ice and rain, the spring thaw on the roads can create significant potholes. Proper driving technique can help prevent damage in the event of a pothole: keep a good distance between yourself and the car in front of you so that potholes are easily spotted. If a pothole impact is inevitable, don’t stray, but rather reduce your speed safely, grab it head-on and slowly roll over the pothole. It is always advisable to check your tires after any measurable pothole impact, as this could damage the structure of the tire and require replacement.

The Hankook Tire Gauge Index is a survey of American attitudes and opinions about driving. The latest survey, conducted February 22-24, 2021, interviewed 2,732 randomly selected Americans aged 18 and over who have a valid US driver’s license.

The latest data from the Hankook Tire Gauge Index is available at TechAndTread.com.