Tire Inspection & Maintenance Checklist
Maintain safety and performance with this comprehensive tire inspection checklist. Covers tread depth, pressure, rotation, and alignment for all vehicle types.
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| Item | Priority | Who | Time | What to check (Pass/Fail) | If failed (Next step) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check cold tire pressure | Required | DIY | 5 min | Matches door-jamb PSI | Inflate or deflate to spec |
| Inspect tread depth (Center) | Required | DIY | 5 min | Above 2/32" (4/32" preferred) | Replace tires soon |
| Check for uneven wear | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | Even wear across the width | Check alignment/suspension |
| Inspect sidewalls for bulges | Required | DIY | 3 min | No bubbles or "eggs" | Replace tire immediately |
| Check for dry rot/cracking | Required | DIY | 3 min | No visible spiderweb cracks | Replace due to age |
| Inspect valve stem caps | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Caps present and tight | Replace missing caps |
| Check spare tire pressure | Required | DIY | 5 min | Matches spare PSI spec | Inflate to spec |
| Inspect for nails/screws | Required | DIY | 5 min | No foreign objects in tread | Patch or replace tire |
| Check wheel lug nut torque | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | Tight to manufacturer spec | Tighten with torque wrench |
| Verify TPMS light status | Required | DIY | 1 min | Light is OFF after startup | Scan for sensor codes |
| Check inner sidewall | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No cuts or rubbing marks | Inspect suspension clearance |
| Inspect wheel rims | Recommended | DIY | 5 min | No bends, cracks, or chips | Repair or replace wheel |
| Check tire manufacture date | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | Less than 6-10 years old | Replace if aged out |
| Evaluate vibration at speed | Recommended | DIY | 10 min | Smooth ride at 60+ mph | Balance wheels at shop |
| Check valve stem condition | Recommended | DIY | 2 min | No leaks when wiggled | Replace valve stem |
| Inspect wheel weights | Optional | DIY | 2 min | Weights are securely attached | Rebalance at shop |
| Check rotation interval | Required | Shop/DIY | 30 min | Rotated within last 5k-8k miles | Perform tire rotation |
| Verify load rating matches | Required | DIY | 2 min | Matches vehicle requirements | Replace with correct rating |
Use the table above as a guide during your monthly walk-around. Mark each item as you go to ensure no corner of the vehicle is overlooked. If you are unsure about a specific wear pattern, take a photo to show a technician.
Consistency is key to tire longevity. Keeping a log of your PSI readings can help you identify slow leaks before they become flat tires on the highway.