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How to Store Seasonal Tires Properly for Longevity

February 17, 2025

When the seasons change in Newport News, VA, so do your tires. Whether you’re switching from summer tires to winter ones or vice versa, proper storage is crucial for maintaining their performance and extending their lifespan. At Pro Auto Repair, we’ve seen firsthand how improper storage can lead to premature wear, cracks, and even unsafe driving conditions. To help you avoid these issues, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on how to store your seasonal tires the right way.

Why Proper Tire Storage Matters

Tires are a significant investment, and neglecting them during the off-season can shorten their lifespan. When tires are stored incorrectly, they can develop flat spots, dry rot, or become brittle due to exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, and ozone. By following proper storage techniques, you can ensure that your tires stay in excellent condition and ready for use when the season changes again.

Steps to Store Your Seasonal Tires

1. Clean Your Tires Thoroughly

Before storing your tires, it’s essential to clean them properly. Dirt, brake dust, and road grime can degrade the rubber over time. Follow these steps for a proper clean:

Use mild soap and water to scrub away dirt.
Avoid harsh chemicals or petroleum-based cleaners that can damage the rubber.
Let the tires dry completely before moving to the next step.

2. Inspect for Damage and Measure Tread Depth

Before putting your tires away for months, inspect them for any signs of wear and damage:

Check for cracks, punctures, or bulges.
Measure the tread depth. If it’s below 4/32 inches, you may need a new set before the next season.
If you notice any issues, bring them to Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA for a professional evaluation.

3. Keep Tires in a Cool, Dry Place

The environment where you store your tires is just as important as how you store them. Here are some ideal storage conditions:

Store tires in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Avoid garages or sheds that experience extreme temperature fluctuations.
Consider using a climate-controlled storage area if available.

4. Bag Your Tires to Prevent Dry Rot

Exposure to oxygen and ozone can cause tires to deteriorate over time. The best way to prevent this is by:

Placing each tire in an airtight plastic bag (such as large garbage bags).
Removing as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
Using vacuum-sealed storage bags designed specifically for tires for the best results.

5. Store Tires Properly: Stacked, Upright, or Hanging?

How you store your tires depends on whether they are mounted on wheels:

If tires are mounted on rims: Store them stacked on top of each other or hung on hooks to prevent stress on the sidewalls.
If tires are not mounted on rims: Store them standing upright to prevent sidewall deformation.

6. Rotate Tires Periodically

If you’re storing your tires for an extended period, rotate them every couple of months to prevent flat spots from forming.

7. Keep Tires Away from Chemicals and Solvents

Tires are sensitive to certain chemicals that can degrade rubber over time. Store them away from:

Gasoline, oils, and solvents.
Ozone-producing appliances like generators or electric motors.

Bonus Tip: Consider Professional Storage Options

If you don’t have the space or proper storage conditions, consider professional tire storage services. Many shops, including Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, offer safe and secure storage options for seasonal tires. This ensures your tires are kept in optimal conditions, ready for when you need them again.

Final Thoughts

Storing your seasonal tires properly can save you money, extend their lifespan, and keep you safe on the road. By following these best practices, you’ll ensure that your tires remain in top condition and ready to perform when it’s time to swap them out.

At Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, we’re here to help you with all your tire-related needs. Whether you need a seasonal tire swap, an inspection, or advice on storage, our expert team has you covered. Schedule your next appointment with us today and keep your tires in peak condition!

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Why Your Steering Wheel Feels Stiff: Common Causes & Fixes in Newport News

March 20, 2025

At Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, we know that a smooth, responsive steering experience is essential for safe and comfortable driving. If you've ever encountered a stiff steering wheel, you know how concerning and frustrating it can be. Whether you're making tight turns or navigating through busy streets, a stiff steering wheel can significantly impact your driving experience. A stiff steering wheel often indicates that something isn’t quite right with your vehicle’s steering system. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel and how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you resolve the issue, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. The Importance of a Smooth Steering System Your vehicle’s steering system is a vital component for maintaining control of your car, truck, or SUV. A smooth and responsive steering system allows for precise control when navigating curves, parking, or driving at high speeds. If your steering feels stiff or unresponsive, it can make driving more difficult and potentially dangerous. Keeping your steering system in top condition is essential for your safety. Regular maintenance and addressing any steering issues promptly will ensure a more enjoyable driving experience and help you avoid costly repairs down the line. Common Causes of a Stiff Steering Wheel Several issues could cause your steering wheel to feel stiff. Let’s break down the most common causes and explain how Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA can help you address them. 1. Low Power Steering Fluid One of the most common causes of a stiff steering wheel is low or contaminated power steering fluid. Your vehicle’s power steering system relies on fluid to make steering more effortless, especially at lower speeds. If the fluid level is low or the fluid is dirty, it can cause the steering wheel to become stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Power steering fluid can leak over time or degrade, reducing its effectiveness. Contaminated fluid can also cause the system to malfunction, resulting in hard steering. What to Do: If you suspect low or dirty power steering fluid, it’s essential to have it checked and replaced. At Pro Auto Repair , we can quickly assess your fluid levels, flush the system if necessary, and ensure the right fluid is added to keep your power steering system functioning smoothly. 2. Worn or Damaged Power Steering Pump The power steering pump is responsible for pushing the fluid through the power steering system. If the pump begins to wear out or break down, it can result in a stiff or unresponsive steering wheel. A faulty pump may also cause whining noises when turning the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the power steering pump can become damaged due to wear and tear, excessive heat, or contamination in the fluid. What to Do: If you notice whining noises or difficulty turning the steering wheel, it's important to have your power steering pump checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, can inspect your pump and replace it if necessary, restoring smooth steering. 3. Damaged Steering Rack or Tie Rods The steering rack and tie rods are essential components that connect your steering wheel to the wheels of your vehicle. If either of these parts becomes damaged, it can lead to stiff steering. A damaged steering rack can cause your steering wheel to feel tight or unresponsive, while damaged tie rods can lead to misalignment, which affects your vehicle’s handling. How It Happens: The steering rack and tie rods can become worn or damaged from age, rough driving conditions, or accidents. When they break down, your steering system will suffer, often resulting in stiffness. What to Do: If the steering rack or tie rods are damaged, it’s critical to have them replaced immediately. Pro Auto Repair offers professional steering system repairs, including steering rack replacement and tie rod replacements, to restore your vehicle's handling and steering precision. 4. Faulty Serpentine Belt The serpentine belt plays a key role in powering various components of your vehicle, including the power steering pump. If the serpentine belt becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it can prevent the power steering pump from working effectively, causing stiffness in the steering wheel. How It Happens: Over time, the serpentine belt can wear out or slip, reducing the amount of power sent to the power steering pump. This can result in reduced steering assist and make the steering wheel harder to turn. What to Do: Regular inspection and maintenance of the serpentine belt can help prevent this issue. If you notice your steering becoming stiff, have the belt checked at Pro Auto Repair , where we’ll ensure it’s properly tightened or replaced as needed. 5. Alignment Issues Your vehicle’s alignment affects how the wheels are positioned in relation to the steering components. When the wheels are misaligned, it can lead to uneven tire wear, pulling to one side, and, in some cases, a stiff steering wheel. Misalignment can also cause your vehicle to feel unstable while driving, especially at higher speeds. How It Happens: Misalignment can occur due to hitting a curb, driving over potholes, or general wear and tear on the suspension components. What to Do: If you’re experiencing a stiff steering wheel alongside pulling to one side or uneven tire wear, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle’s alignment checked. Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, offers professional wheel alignment services that will restore your vehicle's steering precision and improve overall handling. 6. Worn Out Steering Column or Bearings The steering column and bearings are part of the system that connects your steering wheel to the rest of your vehicle’s steering components. If these parts become worn out or damaged, it can cause the steering wheel to feel stiff or difficult to turn. How It Happens: Over time, the bearings can wear down, or the steering column can become misaligned, leading to stiffness in the wheel. This issue is more common in older vehicles or those with higher mileage. What to Do: If your steering wheel feels tight and you’ve ruled out other causes, it could be a sign of issues with the steering column or bearings. Our expert technicians at Pro Auto Repair can diagnose the issue and replace any worn-out components, restoring your steering system’s performance. How Pro Auto Repair Can Help in Newport News, VA At Pro Auto Repair , we specialize in steering system repairs and maintenance. If your steering wheel feels stiff, don’t wait for the problem to worsen—bring your vehicle in for a professional inspection. Our experienced technicians will assess the issue, whether it’s low power steering fluid, a faulty pump, worn-out components, or something else entirely. We’ll provide you with a reliable diagnosis and the necessary repairs to restore smooth steering and keep you safe on the road. Preventive Maintenance for Smooth Steering To keep your steering system in top shape and avoid stiff steering, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some preventive measures you can take: Check fluid levels regularly: Ensure your power steering fluid is topped off and replace it when it becomes dirty or contaminated. Inspect your steering system: Have your steering components, including the pump, rack, and tie rods, checked regularly for wear and tear. Maintain proper alignment: Get your vehicle’s alignment checked every year or whenever you notice signs of uneven tire wear or steering issues. By staying on top of these maintenance tasks, you can keep your steering system running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road. Schedule Your Steering System Check at Pro Auto Repair Today If your steering wheel feels stiff or unresponsive, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Schedule a professional inspection at Pro Auto Repair in Newport News, VA, today. Our expert technicians will diagnose the issue and ensure your steering system is in optimal condition, so you can enjoy a safe and smooth ride.