Most vehicles need a tire rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Check your owner’s manual or ask our team for recommendations based on your vehicle and driving habits.
Tire & Wheel Services
Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that make direct contact with the road. That’s why proper tire care, wheel alignment, and balancing are essential for safe driving, fuel efficiency, and maximizing tire life. At Hollenshade’s Auto Service in Towson, MD, we provide expert tire and wheel services to keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely in all conditions.
Wheel Balance
At highway speeds your vehicle’s tires are like a ballerina. They perform best when balanced correctly. Wheel balance is the weight distribution between a wheel and tire assembly, both radially around the hub (referred to as ‘static’ balance) and laterally around the circumference (also called ‘dynamic’ balance). Balance of the tires being placed on the front axle should be checked at every rotation.
Tire Pressure
The tire PSI rating is the maximum pressure a tire should be run at (checked cold) for the highest allowable load on the tire. This load and pressure information is displayed on the tire sidewall. Tire pressure should be checked on all tires as incorrect tire pressure can cause tires to wear prematurely. It is best to check the tire pressure cold or prior to excessive operation. The minimum load tire pressure recommended by the manufacturer is located on a decal in the door jamb of the vehicle.
Wheel Alignment
Proper wheel alignment ensures that your vehicle drives straight and your tires wear evenly. Misalignment can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, vibrations, or uneven tire wear patterns like feathering or excessive edge wear. We recommend checking your alignment annually or after any major suspension work, pothole impact, or tire replacement.
For more information about alignments CLICK HERE.
Tire Type
Directional tires are constructed in a patter that requires they be mounted in only one direction of rotation. This design provides greater traction but reduces the longevity of the tire on most vehicles. Directional tires can only be rotated front to back and cannot be switched from side to side. This limited rotation ability can lead to adverse wear patterns and a diminished service life. Choosing a tire with an asymmetric tread pattern is a good way to balance performance and maintainability.
Tire Selection and Tread Design
Choosing the right tire for your vehicle and driving conditions is important. We help you select between:
- Directional tires – Designed for one direction of rotation, these offer superior wet traction but limited rotation options.
- Asymmetric tires – Offer a balanced blend of traction and wear, and allow for more flexible rotation patterns.
Signs You Need Tire or Wheel Service
- Vehicle pulls to one side
- Steering wheel vibration at highway speeds
- Uneven tire wear (center, edge, or patchy spots)
- Decreased fuel efficiency
- TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System) light is on
- Tires losing air pressure over time
Benefits of Professional Tire and Wheel Services
- Improved vehicle safety and braking performance
- Better fuel efficiency
- Longer tire lifespan
- Smoother ride with fewer vibrations
- Protection for suspension and steering components
- Compliance with Maryland vehicle inspection requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Uneven wear can be caused by improper inflation, worn suspension components, or poor alignment. Identifying the wear pattern can help pinpoint the issue.
Mixing tire types is not recommended. Using a consistent tread pattern ensures balanced traction and even wear across all four tires.
Yes. Installing new tires without performing a proper alignment can lead to rapid and uneven wear. It’s best practice to align your wheels any time new tires are installed.
Check the tire pressure label in your driver’s door jamb. This lists the manufacturer-recommended PSI for front and rear tires. Don’t rely on the maximum PSI on the tire sidewall.
Schedule Tire and Wheel Service in Towson, MD
At Hollenshade’s Auto Service, we combine advanced diagnostic tools with decades of experience to provide reliable tire and wheel care. Whether you need a tire rotation, balance, alignment, or help selecting the right tires for your vehicle, our ASE-certified technicians are here to help.
Call or book online to schedule your tire and wheel inspection in Baltimore today.
Easy appointment scheduling!
Call or schedule on-line to meet our team. Same day appointments can sometimes be accommodated.
(410) 828-5750 OR GET APPOINTMENT