As stay-at-home orders start to lift, restless drivers are ready to hit the road again. But driving your car after it has been sitting still for several months isn’t as easy as turning on the ignition.

Local tire experts with Tread Connection, a mobile wheel and tire installation service, created the Get Back on the Road Guide to help drivers hop behind the wheel after a long break.

Most Americans have been staying home over the past few months, and the roads show it. In 13 of the country’s 25 biggest cities, the average vehicle miles traveled was less than half the normal number during a week-long research period in March and April (USA Today).

What can happen to your tires when you don’t drive your car?

Flat spots may develop

Loss of tire pressure

Rubber deterioration / UV damage (if left outside)

How can we demonstrate this for your audience?

In a highly visual demonstration, a local Tread Connection expert can show your reporter how to properly check tire pressure and common signs of tire deterioration. Reporters are welcome to interview our local pros in person or by video chat.

Ready, set, go!

Tread Connection’s Get Back on the Road Guide: 3 Checkpoints to Make Sure Your Car is Ready

Check the tire pressure – Tires can lose pressure while sitting still. Find the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure for your car on a sticker in the door jamb. Recommended tire pressure is usually between 30 and 35 PSI. You can find this using a small tire gauge or by taking your car to the nearest gas station that offers air. Checking the air pressure on your tires should be a priority, as it is not recommended to drive with low tire pressure.

Check for flat spots – When tires haven’t moved for long periods of time, they can develop flat spots. This occurs when the weight of your vehicle pushes on the tires in one specific location, and it can be avoided by moving your car occasionally. You might also consider lifting your car on a jack if you plan to let it sit still for a long period of time. If you didn’t do this, don’t worry! In many cases, you can drive out a flat spot — you will notice some bumps and thumps for a few minutes before the ride becomes smooth again. But, sometimes flat spots are permanent, and your tires will need to be replaced.

Check for rubber deterioration – Exposure to ultraviolet rays can lead to rubber deterioration, as can the simple act of letting your car sit still for too long. Affected areas may appear harder than normal, and there’s a problem if pieces of the rubber flake off when you touch your tires. You may also notice cracks on the sidewall of the tire. The color may also fade into more of a gray tone. If you notice any of these problems, call a tire maintenance expert before you hit the road.