Pluses and Minuses of Self-Supporting, Self-Sealing and Auxiliary-Supported Run Flat Tires
I just bought a BMW Z4 that comes with run flat tires as standard equipment. There is no spare, not even one of those tiny, compact spares that are used in most cars today. By eliminating the spare, it provides more trunk space especially in sports cars.

Coping with Brake Dust
I am fortunate to live in Southern California where maintaining a car looking great is a pretty easy task year around. A monthly wash and annual waxing keeps my Saab looking great, except for the alloy wheels. Within a few miles, the wheels are covered by a coating of black dust. Not only is the dust unsightly, it is quite corrosive. Left on the wheels for any lengthy period of time, the dust mixed with water becomes an acid that can etch the finish on the wheel.

Change Your Oil and Rotate Your Tires
Most people do the first, but neglect the second. Most newer vehicles have 6,000 to 7,500 mile recommended oil change intervals, so tire rotation can done at the same time. However, check the owners manual for the recommended service intervals for your vehicle. Doing both at the same time can save a trip to a service facility, not to mention the time in the waiting room.

Be Aware of Tire Wear
While irregular tire wear is a good indication that it might be time to have your tires replaced, did you know that it can also be a warning sign that your vehicle is experiencing steering, alignment or suspension problems?

Keeping Trailer Wheel Bearings Going Round And Round
Repacking wheel bearings on modern trucks, SUVs and RVs might be beyond the capabilities of many do-it-yourselfers mainly because it usually involves disassembly and assembly of sophisticated disc brake systems. In comparison, repacking of wheel bearing on trailers is relatively easy.

Dunlop Tires 'Tune Into' Supercharged 'Tuner' European Cars
Luxury vehicle builders are increasingly specifying Dunlop to outfit supercharged versions of Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz sports cars. Dunlop today said it's making gains on high- profile "tuner" vehicles.

Bridgestone Turanza EL400 Now Offered In Eight New H-Speed-Rated Replacement Tire Sizes
Tennessee - Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire, LLC (BFNT) has further expanded its Bridgestone brand Turanza replacement tire line to include new H-speed-rated sizes of the Turanza EL400.

Balloons for the Road - Advice on Maintaining Tires
Mention balloons and the average person thinks of a party. In the early days of automobiles, the forerunner of the modern tire was often referred to as a "balloon tire." Similarities still exist between "party balloons" and inflatable tires. Motorists may not realize it, but they drive on a cushion of air. Tires alone do not support a vehicle, the air pressure inside them does!

Check Tires Prior to Seasonal Rains for Safety's Sake
Worn tires and a National Weather Service forecast calling for significant rainfall and perhaps flooding is a recipe for disaster. Drivers should inspect their tires for adequate tread depth to ensure that they can handle the puddles and slick pavement that springtime brings.

Do you Understand your Tires?
Want to read your tire's thoughts and intentions? You should, because understanding what your car's shoes can and cannot do is as important to driving, as is the car's horsepower rating or rear suspension design.