Why Tires Are So Important

So why are tires so important?

Well, if you're like me, you've always been more concerned about the size and safety features of your vehicle. But your tires are one of the most important safety aspects of your car/truck.

When picking out a vehicle, we chose a GMC Yukon Xl for it's size (I think I would have drove around in a tank if possible) and for the extra interior room. I also wanted 4-wheel drive.

But when it came to tires, I really never gave them much thought. I knew I wanted something that was safe in the winter months, but that was about as far as my concern went for the tires. I always just left tire purchases to my husband.

 I recently learned that no matter what the vehicle, size, frame or safety features, in the end it all comes down to what's in contact with the road...and that's your tires.

Back in May I was invited to the Cooper Tire Test Facility outside of San Antonio, Texas. Here's a little recap of what me and some other bloggers did while we were there:

And specifically, here is what I did there:

 We tested out the new Cooper CS5 Touring Tire, featuring Cooper's new innovative Wear Square. I just think this is the neatest thing, and it takes the guess work out of tire buying.
No more feeling like you're being taken for a ride at the tire store (no pun intended) ;)
 


“Our new Wear Square underscores Cooper’s commitment to tire safety,” said Scott Jamieson, Cooper’s Director of Product Management. “Consumers will appreciate this new and easy way to check their tires’ remaining tread life, which is a key part of overall tire health and vehicle maintenance, which is important to safe operation.”

The following tips from Cooper take less than 10 minutes a month to conduct. In addition to these routine tire maintenance checks, drivers should also perform checks prior to any long road trips and bring their vehicles to a tire dealer for a professional inspection if consumers are in doubt about the condition of their tires.

 As a general rule, the deeper the tread depth, the better. Tire tread depth should exceed 2/32s of an inch deep all around the tire. If not driving on the new CS5 Touring tire from Cooper with the Wear Square included, drivers can check tread depth by inserting the edge of a U.S. penny in between the tread, with Lincoln going in headfirst. If the top of Lincoln's head is covered by tread, there is at least a minimum acceptable amount of tread. If the top of his head is visible at any location on the tire, it is time to replace the tire.

• While examining the tread, consumers should also look for signs of uneven wear or damage, such as cuts, cracks, splits, punctures and bulges. These conditions shorten the life of tires and, if not corrected, could cause further tire damage, tire failure or air loss if left unnoticed.
• Drivers should follow the guidelines in the vehicle owner’s manual or tire placard (or sticker) attached to the vehicle door edge to determine the correct air pressure for their vehicle's tires. A common myth is that the pressure listed on the tire sidewall is the optimal pressure – in reality, it is the maximum pressure.

• Air pressure should be checked when the tires are completely cool, meaning they are not hot from driving even a mile.
• If any of these checks signal the need for tire maintenance, or if drivers are doubtful about the condition of tires, vehicles should be brought to a tire dealer for a professional inspection.

I also learned that if you are only able to purchase 2 new tires, that those new tires should be placed on the back of the vehicle for optimal grip.

 During my time at the Cooper Test Track, I tested the Cooper CS5 against the Pirelli Cinturato p7 tires. I have to tell you that the Cooper CS5 blew the Pirelli tires out of the water! I really was shocked at the difference in grip. I wish you all could have tried out the wet track like I did, because it really was the best way to feel the differences in the tires. I was 100% sold on the Cooper CS5 tires after that.

We also experienced the differences between having the new tires on the back of the vehicle versus the front. Let me tell you from my own experience....put the new tires on the back of your vehicle. There was a HUGE difference in grip. 

After testing out the tires, and also having a little fun on the distracted driving course (which being a  mom on twins and a little girl, I am quite used to driving distracted), we got to have some fun with Indy Race Car Driver, Johnny Unser.

This was an absolute blast and something I will never forget. Also, Johnny Unser is a very kind man who has a heart for charity and our veterans. He was recently involved with the Word Of Honor Fund which provides a continuum of support that facilitates milestone events for the surviving children of SEALs and Special Operations personnel who die while assigned to a select Naval Special Operations Group. 

I learned more about tires than I ever thought possible, but I also learned that tire buying is not as complicated as we make it out to be. YOU CAN DO THIS LADIES! 

I want to thank everyone at Cooper Tires, The Zimmerman Agency,  Mr. Johnny Unser and As Mom Sees It for the opportunity to attend this great event. 

Now who wants to WIN 4 new Cooper CS5 tires?!?!?!?!?

 Disclaimer: Cooper Tires sponsored my trip to this event, however, the views expressed in this blog post are all my own. The tires for the giveaway are sponsored by Cooper Tire. 

Giveaway is open to US residents ages 18 and over.

I am not responsible for prize delivery.

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