As summer winds down and cooler weather approaches in Massachusetts, it’s time to start preparing your vehicle for fall road conditions. One of the most important—but often overlooked—parts of seasonal car care is making sure your tires are ready for the change in temperature and weather patterns. At AXP Auto, with locations in Randolph and Braintree, MA, we help drivers transition smoothly from summer to fall with expert tire inspections and maintenance.
In this blog, we’ll explain how cooler weather impacts your tires, what steps you should take to get ready for fall driving, and we’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear from local customers.
Why Fall Tire Prep Matters
Massachusetts roads can be unpredictable in the fall—wet leaves, slick pavement, and sudden temperature drops can all affect traction. Preparing your tires now ensures your vehicle handles well and stops safely, no matter what the season brings.
Poor tire maintenance can lead to:
- Uneven or reduced tread depth
- Poor grip on cold, wet, or leaf-covered roads
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- A higher risk of blowouts or hydroplaning
5 Ways to Prepare Your Tires for Fall
1. Check Tread Depth
Your tires need at least 4/32” of tread for safe traction in wet or slick conditions. You can do a quick test using a quarter—if you can see the top of Washington’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
2. Inspect for Wear and Damage
Look for uneven wear, bald spots, cracks, bulges, or punctures. These issues can worsen with colder weather and pose a safety risk.
3. Monitor Tire Pressure
Cooler temperatures cause tire pressure to drop. For every 10°F drop in air temperature, tire pressure decreases by about 1 PSI. Driving with underinflated tires leads to poor handling and increased wear.
4. Schedule a Tire Rotation
If you haven’t rotated your tires this summer, now is the perfect time. Rotating your tires ensures even tread wear and helps extend their lifespan—especially before fall rains begin.
5. Consider a Wheel Alignment
If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel is off-center, a wheel alignment can correct the issue and prevent premature tire wear.
Frequently Asked Tire Questions
Q: Can summer tires handle fall weather in Massachusetts?
A: Summer tires aren’t ideal for colder or wet conditions. If you’re driving on high-performance or summer tires, consider switching to all-season or winter tires as temperatures drop.
Q: How often should I check my tire pressure?
A: Once a month, and especially when the seasons change. Be sure to check when tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
Q: How long do tires usually last?
A: Most tires last 5–6 years or 40,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on how and where you drive. Regular inspections help maximize that lifespan.
Q: Do I need new tires if only one is worn?
A: It depends on your vehicle and how much wear there is. Sometimes, replacing just one or two tires can affect your car’s handling or AWD system. Our technicians can help you decide what’s best for your car.
Prepare for Fall with AXP Auto in Randolph & Braintree, MA
Don’t wait until fall weather takes a toll on your tires. At AXP Auto, we offer professional tire inspections, rotations, pressure checks, and replacements to help you drive confidently as the seasons change.
Visit us in Randolph or Braintree to schedule your tire service today—and stay safe, no matter the forecast.