If you're the kind of driver who ignores your tires until you see a warning light on the dashboard, you could be wasting money – and even putting yourself at risk. Regular auto maintenance is important, especially during the winter, and tire checkups are no exception.

One issue that drivers often struggle with is keeping tires properly inflated. Failure to do so is a big problem. According to Transport Canada, having just one tire underinflated by 56 kilopascal can reduce its life by 15,000 kilometers.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when maintaining your tires:

• Measure tire inflation once per month. You can't actually tell how inflated a tire is just by looking at it. The weight of your car, as well as the incline of the ground, can affect how a tire looks. Instead, take some time every month to check with a reliable gauge.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Make sure that your tires aren't underinflated or overinflated, as both scenarios can lead to unexpected failure. The best time to measure is when the tires are cold, at least two hours after the last time you drove the vehicle.
• Don't forget your spare tire. You'll definitely want to make sure this is in good shape as well, just in case something happens to one of your main tires. Keep in mind that spare tires may have different recommended pressures.

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