Real Steel or His Flashy Brother, Alloy—Talking Wheels with RNR

I know in the past, you girls have written to me wondering what the deal is with custom wheels.  Most of the time, you just don’t get it—and that’s okay; but more and more, we find all kinds of people looking to spiff up their rides with some nice wheels.  If you’re new to this world or you’re thinking it might be fun to (as one friend put it) “decorate” your car, there are some basics you should know.  We discussed some of these briefly in a blog a while back, but what we didn’t discuss specifically was maintenance—and I know you all want to know what it’s going to take to keep things looking their best.  For the same reason you want to know if that dress is “dry clean only” before you buy it, you want to know what it’s going to take to keep your new wheels looking new, right?

So, here’s the skinny on custom wheels.  There are basically two kinds of wheels you’re talking about: alloy (or aluminum/nickel) and steel.  If you’re looking for the pretty, you’ll probably want to go with an alloy wheel, but if you’re treating your wheels like workhorses, then steel’s probably your best bet.  I can almost hear you asking why, so I’ll tell you.

There’s a lot more variety in style when it comes to alloy wheels because they can be cast.  Aluminum is a softer metal then steel, so it’s easier to work with, to shape, to design; but it’s this same positive that can, at times, be its negative.  Because alloy is a softer metal than steel, it also bends more easily under impact and can even crack when bent too far.  The cracking depends on the ratio of aluminum to nickel; more nickel makes the wheel heavier and more brittle, less makes the wheel lighter and more able to bend.  Being lighter is another plus on the alloy side.  Lighter wheels mean better acceleration and more dexterity when driving.  Alloy wheels can also have a variety of finishes like polished, painted, machined, or chromed, but they are also susceptible to cosmetic damage like corrosion from salt water and acid cleaners, and scrapes.  So, you get a lot more variety and a lot of ways to “style” your ride, but with that variety comes wheels that are more susceptible to damage than a harder metal like steel.  That means the possibility of replacing them because of damage is higher than with steel wheels.

If you want to keep your alloy wheels looking pretty and new, you’ll have to put a little elbow grease into them as well.  The biggest, everyday problem so far as keeping your wheels clean is dealing with brake dust, which can be corrosive.  Check out this previous blog for some cleaning tips!  But if you live near the ocean, you’ll also have to deal with corrosion from the salty ocean air.  Chances are that if you’re willing to put the money into outfitting your car or truck with custom wheels, then you’re willing to put the time in to maintain the appearance of your vehicle as well.  If not, how important is it to you, really?

Your other option for wheels are steel wheels.  They’re sturdy and durable but they’re also heavy and lack the “bling” factor of their alloy brothers.  If you’re looking at new wheels for high performance or cosmetic reasons, steel’s not for you.  They make a vehicle feel heavier and take a nibble out of the car’s acceleration and agility, but there are some situations that might make this a positive, like driving in snow.

Steel can also take a beating, generally without cracking or showing much damage, so if you don’t do maintenance, they could be a better bet.  Most cars these days come with alloy wheels because they look and handle better, but you can always make a change. If you need or want a second set of wheels because you live in the frozen North and you want to keep your “summer wheels” pretty, steel might be a good alternative.  They’re much less expensive (ideal for a second set) and can hold up to the beating winter can give.

If you’re thinking about dressing up your ride with some custom wheels, girls, do a little research.  Just like a new pair of boots, you have to find out how to take care of them, how to keep them looking new; and you have to know where you’re going to be wearing them.  You wouldn’t wear knee high boots with a stacked heel to go hiking right?  Same with your wheels—get the look you want but make sure it also fits your lifestyle.  Come see us at RNR for style tips and to learn more about the specifics of the look you’re going for—we know what we’re talking about.;)  Talk to you soon!


Bree

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express Supports Breast Cancer Research

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express, based in Tampa, Florida but with 67 stores (including 13 franchisees) in 22 states, is asking their customers to support breast cancer research.  Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States among women, as well as the second leading cause of death in women.  According to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, it is estimated that in 2013, there will be: 232,340 new cases of invasive breast cancer, 64,640 new cases of in situ breast cancer, and 39,620 deaths from breast cancer. The chance of a woman developing breast cancer is 1 in 8. RNR is hoping to make a difference in those numbers.

All through the month of October, RNR is asking their customers to donate a dollar (or more, if they would like) to breast cancer research; when they donate, RNR will put their name on a placard and display it in the store.  All donations will be given to the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa.  Moffitt Cancer Center is one of the pre-eminent cancer hospitals in the country, and one of 41 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers due to its acknowledged excellence in research, clinical trials, prevention and cancer control.  According to Moffitt’s website, it is the number 1 cancer hospital in Florida and has been named one of  U.S. News and World Report’s “America’s Best Hospitals” for cancer since 1999—and it’s right in RNR’s backyard. 

RNR’s corporate headquarters are on Nebraska Avenue in Tampa, just up the road from Moffitt Cancer Center, which is located on the campus of the University of South Florida.  But proximity to one of the country’s best cancer hospitals isn’t the only reason RNR chose to support Breast Cancer Awareness month in their stores—it’s also personal.  Founder and President of RNR, Larry Sutton, says, “Supporting breast cancer research is personal for me, as my mother was a breast cancer survivor.  I personally believe that every successful business has a responsibility to give back, and finding worthwhile causes for us to support shows our employees the value of being good corporate citizens.” 

Breast Cancer Awareness month began more than 25 years ago and remains dedicated to educating women on breast health, from self exams to mammograms to the importance of early diagnosis.  To learn more about National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, please visit their website. 

 

Out of Line—Talking Alignment with RNR

Dear Bree,

There’s something wrong with my car and I think it’s the alignment.  Here’s why:  My steering wheel shakes like a dog at a fireworks show, and my car to drifts to one side of the road like it’s falling asleep (picture a head falling over—get it?).  Here’s what I need to know:  Am I right?  What do I do about it?  And how does this happen?

Thanks, Bree!

Out of Line

 

Dear Out of Line,

I haven’t seen your car, so I can’t say for sure, but it sounds like it. Usually, there are some common symptoms to look for when your car is out of alignment: that shaky steering wheel; the drifting to the side that you mentioned; but also, if you’re driving straight but your steering wheel isn’t centered, you may have an alignment problem.  Another telltale sign will be on your tires.  When a car’s alignment is out of whack, the tires will wear unevenly, and usually you’ll see that they are wearing out more quickly on the outer edges.  This will affect the overall life of your tires, so you don’t just want to wait around on the problem.  Getting your alignment fixed is a lot less expensive than a set of new tires.

Interestingly, when your alignment is off, it’s not so much a wheel issue as it is a suspension problem.  Over time, parts of your car’s suspension become worn, springs stretch out, etc. and things get a little off.  Bumping a curb, hitting a big pothole, or a fender bender can throw of all of those highly-calibrated parts of your suspension and make the wheels go all wonky and sit at the wrong angles.  When you take your car in to have the alignment fixed, the proper angles will be restored, your wheels will sit straight and you’ll be steering smoothly again.  When you’re riding straight, your tires will wear evenly and you’ll even get better gas mileage because your tires will be all lined up with the road, decreasing resistance.  And what did you have to do to get all of these benefits?
Just recognize the signs and take it to people in the know.  So, save your tires, save some gas and save some money.  Get your alignment checked out and fixed up.  Your car will drive better and you’ll have a lot less to worry about in the end.  If you’ve pushed it too far and your tires need replacing, you know who to call.  RNR will hook you up with a new set and a payment plan you can afford.
 

 

Bree

How Long Will They Last: RNR Talks Tread Wear

Dear Bree,

A friend of mine was giving me tips on what to look for in my new tires, and he said I need to know something about tread.  All I know is that I need some.  What is he talking about?

Treading Water in Lakeland 

 

 

 

 

Dear Treading,

He could be a bit more specific, couldn’t he?  I think your vague friend is referring to the longevity of the tire based on tire tread, and how long your tires last comes down to several factors, like your driving habits, the weather and climate where you live, road conditions and the tire manufacturer’s tire longevity estimate. 

If you drive like a maniac, love to peel out and think breaks are for wimps (until you really have to stop), then your tires may not last as long as your grandmother’s new tires.  When you leave rubber on the road, it just makes sense that your tires will wear out faster, right?  If you live at the end of a road decorated with potholes or spend a lot of time winding around curvy roads, your tires will tend to wear out faster, too.

If you want some idea on how long a specific tire will last, you can check the tire manufacturer’s tire longevity estimate.  This is an estimate based on the testing conditions used by the manufacturer, and while it definitely gives you a jumping off point, the tests are not necessarily based on real-world conditions (like those potholes and curves we just talked about).  To get a better idea about how tires will wear in this case, take a look at the UTQG, the U.S. Department of Transportation's labeling system for the tread wear, temperature resistance and traction of each type of tire.  Here’s an example of how it works:  If you’re looking at a tire with a tread wear rating of 300, then it should last 3 times longer than a tire with a rating of 100.  Temperature ratings range from A to C, and traction ratings, from AA to C.  When you’re looking at longevity ratings between different tires within the same brands, these ratings are the most helpful.  The grading system between brands can be interpreted differently, so using the UTQG rating alone to determine the difference in longevity between tires of different brands may not be the best idea.

Generally speaking, the average tire life of an all-season tire is between 40,000 and 100,00 miles.  That’s a pretty big swing, but there are so many factors that come into play in determining a tire’s life, that our best advice is to do some research, read reviews, and talk to people in the know (like the guys at RNR!).  Tires are a big investment, and you want to get as much life out of them as possible, so put some time and thought into buying them. And don’t forget that RNR offers an easy rental plan to help you get back on the road without laying down a huge chunk of change right now.  Get the tires you need on a schedule you can afford.  Hope to see you soon!

Bree

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express Holds Steak and Beans Picnic

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express recently held a picnic to celebrate the winners of their Steak and Beans contest.  The contest was a six-week competition between stores, which were evenly divided and split into two teams, Team Fantastic and Team Awesome.  The picnic, which was held on September 15^th, 2013, at a remote lake house, brought both teams together; the winners, Team Awesome, were dining on a grade-A select steak, while the others were dished up a bowl of beans.  Everyone enjoyed the beautiful scenery and wildlife and was surprised later in the day when Steve Sutton, owner of an RNR store in Ocala, offered Team Fantastic a chance at redemption.  Steve created a game show-style competition where teams were pitted against one another to answer questions that tested their knowledge of all things RNR-related, like wheel fitments, bolt patterns, and a vast array of wheel and tire trivia.  Each team excelled, but in the end, Team Fantastic went home with the glory—and a sweet redemption. 

RNR enjoys bringing their franchisees and stores together, along with their families, for some   Randy Cabrera, Integrated Marketing Director, had this to say about the day, “The Steak and Beans picnic was a great time and the perfect opportunity to get all of our staff together to meet and mingle with each other and our families and children. Family is number 1 at RNR, and on September 15^th, we were one big family!”

recreation and fun, and the Steak and Beans picnic was the perfect opportunity to spend a day outside reconnecting with each other and relaxing.

 

 

 

RNR’s Mid-Year Conference to be Held in Atlanta

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express will hold their annual Mid-Year Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, September 11^th and 12^th, at the Renaissance Concourse Hotel Atlanta Airport.  The Mid-Year Conference is designed to give franchisees and operators an opportunity to come together and discuss concerns, share ideas, meet with vendors, discuss the successes and challenges of this past year, and plan promotions for the 1^st quarter of next year before the larger RNR Annual Conference to be held in late January in Tampa, FL.  Participants will spend their first day meeting with vendors, learning about new products and special RNR vendor packages, etc.  The second day will be spent in an open forum to allow franchisors and operators to discuss the upcoming January meeting, and/or pertinent concerns in the meantime.

The Mid-Year Conference is smaller than January’s Annual Meeting.  The Annual Conference tends to attract not only franchisees and operators, but managers, staff and even spouses.  Even so, at this year’s Mid-Year Conference, RNR is expecting to see at least one representative of almost every franchise, and they’re very excited about the turnout.  Vice President of Operations, Vince Ficarrotta, had this to say: “The Mid-Year Conference is important in our planning process.  It’s a great place to gather ideas for our Annual Conference in January, and it’s vital to planning our promotions for the first quarter of next year.  It really gives us a chance to hear from our franchisees about what’s working and give us their input as we move forward.”

 

Free-Wheelin’ It? Not When You’re Looking for New Wheels

A while back someone wrote in asking me to explain the  wheel “thing” to her.  She didn’t understand why her boyfriend wanted to spend money on such things, and I tried to explain the phenomenon to her using an analogy I thought she’d understand (she seemed like a shopper): shoes.  Think of wheels like shoes for your car.  After giving it a little thought, I wondered if maybe some people are curious about where they’d even start to shop for new wheels for their vehicle; I mean, if you wanted a new pair of shoes, you’d look for your size, shoes appropriate for the weather and occasion, etc.  So what do you need to know to pick out a new set of wheels:

1. 1.  Now, you wouldn’t go into a shoe store without knowing your size would you?  Yes, you might actually, and that’s okay because they can measure your feet and help you out.  If you know all of your specs (year, make, model and tire size) before you walk in the door, that’s great!  If you don’t, RNR can help—not to fret!

2.  What kind of wheel are you looking for?  Do you want to turn heads when you drive down the street or are you looking for a classy but understated step up from your original, factory wheel?  Want to add some color and sparkle?  Do you want something bigger and/or wider than your original rim or are you sticking with the same size?  Just what do you want the look of your vehicle to be with these new wheels?

 

3.  What material are you looking for?  Do you want shiny chrome (aluminum) or gold chrome (aluminum)?  Do you want black or another color of aluminum or are you looking at steel, which is stronger but not usually as flashy as some aluminum wheels?  Each kind has its own issues—some will need more polishing, some will chip more easily than others.  I suggest you choose your look, then start asking questions and doing your research.  If you’re not someone who wants to deal with a lot of maintenance, then you should know what it’s going to take to keep your beautiful new wheels looking beautiful.  If the wheels you wanted are more work than you’re interested in, then rethink your look or ask about alternatives.  Also, think about where you’ll be driving—out a long country road or suburban streets?  The places you go affect the condition of your wheels long term and the time and money involved in maintaining them.  Our guys at RNR know their wheels, and they can answer all of these questions.

 

4.  Know your bolt pattern.  I can almost hear you saying, “What?”  Your bolt pattern is the number of wheel studs you have and how far apart they are.  If you’re trying to buy online or maybe from a catalog, you’ve got to know this; if you come into RNR, we’ve got you covered.

 

These are your basic factors involved.  From here, it just comes down to personal taste.   If you’re a first-time buyer, we suggest you ask for help.  Come in and talk to us about your choices, make sure you’ve got all of the info you need so you get exactly what you want.  If you need to, we’ll set you up with a rental plan for your wheels, too.  We make buying wheels as easy and painless as possible at RNR.

Got more questions?   Drop me a line on our Facebook page or call or visit any of our stores!

Why Rent When You Can Buy? Bree Knows

A few months ago, NPR did a great piece about renting tires; and since we’re the largest rent-to-own tire and wheel company in the country, it’s only logical that they came to the experts for their info. The people at NPR were wondering why people would want to rent their tires when, in the end, they’d be paying rental fees.  Wouldn’t it be more cost effective to buy your tires outright?  The answer might be yes, but what you have to consider is this: Many people can’t afford to spend hundreds of dollars all at once on a new set of tires, but they have to have tires for their vehicles.  So, what can they do when their livelihoods depend on their ability to get around?  Rent their tires, that’s what!

RNR provides a service to their customers: We allow them to get the tires (and wheels!) they need when they need them in a way that fits their budgets.  Listen to the NPR piece and you’ll hear actual customers talk about why they decided to rent their tires.  “Oh, I checked every place in town, and they were outrageous!  It would be anywhere from $4[00] to $500 and I just don’t have that right now,” says Shannon Kelly, a customer at an RNR store in Ocala, FL.  Says Lynn Warren, a McDonald’s manager and RNR customer, “I understand that I’ll probably end up paying a lot, but right now, I need the tires.”  In this economy, more and more people are finding this to be true.

What factors play into the pricing of tires?  Lots of things.  Tires prices have risen in the past few years because of higher rubber prices and a US-imposed tariff on Chinese tires. 

In 2009, US tire companies complained that Chinese tire companies were being unfairly subsidized by the Chinese government and said that they couldn’t compete with the prices of Chinese-made tires. The US government agreed and put a 35% tax on Chinese, imported, passenger tires.  OuchCheck out this blog for more info on tire pricing.

 

One thing led to another and suddenly the prices on all tires were being pushed up.  The price of imported passenger tires jumped about 40%!  That’s a pretty painful price jump when you’re looking to buy a new set of tires.  So, how are people in an economy with tighter credit, wages that aren’t growing, and a high unemployment rate supposed to keep up with that kind of increase and stay safely on the road?  They come to RNR Custom Wheels and Tires where they can rent their wheels and tires and make weekly or bi-weekly payments until they’re paid off.  Lots of people pay their tires and wheels off before their contract is up; others need that full, contract period.  Either way, our customers get back on the road fast with safe, quality tires and a payment plan that fits their lives.

At RNR, we get you back on the road fast, and our knowledge and service always mean that you get the perfect set of wheels and tires for you.  We even have a roadside assistance plan, if you need help!  Take a listen to the NPR piece about RNR and the rent-to-own tire industry and let us know what you think!

 

Bree

Think of Fancy Wheels as Shoes for Your Car: A Girl’s Guide to RNR

Dear Bree,

My boyfriend just spent what I consider a small fortune on a set of fancy wheels for his car.  He had perfectly nice ones on there already!  I mean, cars just need to roll, right?  Imagine what he could be doing with that cash.  If it were me, I’d at least do a little shopping!  Help this girl understand the fascination, Bree, because right now, I’m just not getting it.

Frustrated in Ft. Lauderdale

 

Dear Frustrated,

I understand your confusion.  Once upon a time, this ginger didn’t get it either.  Then, I sat down one day with a fan of fancy wheels, as you call them, and he helped me understand by using language that made sense to me—shoes.  The conversation went something like this:

Bree: I don’t get it. Why would anyone pay for special wheels when their car clearly came with perfectly acceptable ones?

Friend: Think of them as shoes for your car.

Bree:  What?!  How many pairs of shoes does one car need?  I mean really, the shoes on it right now get the job done, right?

Friend:  How many pairs of shoes do you need?  Your Nikes probably get the job done too, but I bet you wouldn’t want to wear them out to dinner.  It’s the same thing.

Bree:  Huh.

It was my light bulb moment.  I mean, how many guys do you know who like to shop?  How many of them really care about their clothes or shoes?  Custom wheels (and tires, too!) might just be a form of personal expression (personalizing his ride) the same way shoes are for some women (or purses or clothes or earrings—you get the point).  Instead of going out for a new pair of heels, some people (mostly men, but custom wheels are rising in popularity among all groups of people, women included) want to dress up their car.  They want to make their car look different from all of the other cars on the street, they want to be unique.  You can understand that, right?

Recently, SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) published an article on this very subject—the rise of custom wheels and performance tires.  Kelly Austin, chairman of SEMA’s Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) and Vice President of MKW Alloy Inc. had this to say: "During my tenure in the wheel business, I've seen wheels go from a niche mostly for extreme performance markets all the way to where it is now.  Currently, custom wheels are almost as popular as iPods or cell phones. It's transcended to people we would not normally consider as enthusiasts. House moms, nannies and grandparents are all cruising the town on custom wheels to look cool.”  So, you see, Frustrated, it’s not just your boyfriend; apparently, LOTS of people like to customize their cars—and they have a lot of choices available.  There are at least five specifications (wheel diameter, bolt circle (pattern), rim width, backspacing and offset), as well as, types, materials and colors to choose from.  At RNR, we consider oursleves something akin to the DSW of custom wheels and performance tires.  We’ve got more choices than you can shake a stick at!  We think your boyfriend would be really happy here. 

If you want to see what all the hype is really about, come see us at RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express, and we’ll walk you through some choices for your car.  Once you see how custom wheels can change the look of your car, you might just be a believer!

Bree

RNR Breaks it Down: Tire Prices

Dear Bree,
I’ve noticed that the price of tires has really gone up in the past few years and I’m wondering if there’s a method to this madness.  What the heck goes into making a tire that makes it more expensive today than, say, five or ten years ago?
Curious Callie

Dear Callie,
That is a many-layered question you ask, but I’ll do my best to answer it.  I’ll start out by giving you a list of the top factors that affect tire prices: supply of rubber, oil prices, tariffs, supply and demand, the vast selection of tire sizes available today and emerging markets.  All of these things are out of your control but they all affect the price you’ll pay for tires now and in the future (and for a lot of other products. as well).  I think it's best to just break this down for you item by item and keep it simple, so here goes:

Supply of Rubber:  You learned this in your basic economics class, right?  If you need something but there’s not enough of it, the price of that item goes up.  Have too much of something, and its value decreases.  The same is true of rubber.  When there’s a slow-down in the auto industry, there may be a corresponding drop in tire prices.  A flood in India wipes out key rubber plantations, and the price shoots up.

Oil Prices:  There are two types of rubber used to make tires, natural and synthetic.  Natural, of course, is coming from those rubber trees we briefly discussed in our supply section. Synthetic rubber is made from petrochemical feedstocks and the main raw material used is crude oil.  About a billion tires are made every year, and about 70% of those tires are synthetic.  Now, it takes about 7 gallons of crude oil to make 1 tire: 5 gallons to make the feedstock and two to fuel the manufacturing process.  Roughly, these figures translate to about 5 billion gallons of oil used to make tires every year.  If you’ve been to the pump lately to fill up your car, then you understand why the price of tires is going up.

Tariffs:  Tariffs are the taxes or duties paid on certain imports and exports.  In 2009, the US imposed a 35% tariff on all car and light truck tires being imported from China because law-makers felt that the market was being flooded by cheap Chinese tires.  It was touted as a way to save American jobs but it also significantly raised the price of tires for all tire consumers.

Supply and Demand:  We talked about supply in our first section dealing with the supply of rubber, but it also applies in our discussion of oil prices.  With more and more consumers buying more automobiles, we need more gas to power them and more crude oil to manufacture the tires those cars and trucks ride on—so prices increase on oil and we feel it those effects when we purchase our tires, gas, etc. Crude oil isn’t manufactured in a factory, it is a finite natural resource. Less supply + more demand= higher prices for you.

More Choices, More $:  In 1977, 10 tire sizes covered 89% of the market (according to the Tire and Rim Association).  In just five years (2003 to 2008), the number of tire sizes increased by 42 percent to 519 different tire sizes for cars and light trucks.  When you’re only making ten different tire sizes, it’s much easier to produce large amounts of tires in the same process and keep your costs lower, but if you’re producing 519 different sizes (individual tire makers would not take on all 519, but you get the point), you’ve significantly increased the amount of effort, resources, etc. expended in production.  Ka-ching.  Factor in the increased inventory that tire sellers are required to stock, as well as storage space for all of those tires and you can see why having more choices equals having more expenses.

Emerging Markets:  Population rises in countries like China, India and Japan fuel jobs and economic growth within those countries, and hopefully a rise in the middle class.  What else comes from all of this growth?  A need for automobiles, and thus, tires.  Demand, demand, demand (and supply!) are at work again, and the price of tires will be affected accordingly.

So, there’s a rough breakdown for you, Callie.  All of these factors combine and fluctuate in tire prices, as in everything else, and it’s difficult (if not impossible) to tease them apart and put the blame on one or the other.  The tire tariff increases of 2009 caused a rather dramatic increase in tire prices, but certainly the price of oil, the supply of rubber and the other factors we’ve discussed have played a significant role in the pricing of tires, as well.  The long and short of it is this:  We all need tires and we all want the best price for the safest tires available (and a nice, long tire life, too!).  We do our best at RNR to offer our customers the most competitive prices that we possibly can, along with the variety of size and performance that they want (and we offer a Rent-N-Roll program with convenient payments and 120 days same as cash program to make buying that new set of tires more feasible!).  A lot of factors go into choosing a new set of tires, price definitely being one of them; come see us at RNR and let’s talk about your options!

Bree

Dry Rot: Tires Get Old, Too

All good things come to an end, right?  And so it is with tires.  Everything degrades with time, there’s no way around it, and tires are no different.  You might think you’re just looking distinguished as you age, but your tires are just plain getting OLD.  Oils and chemicals in tires start to evaporate or break down over time because of UV exposure and plain old air, and the tire starts its slow death dance, otherwise known as dry rot.  The rubber becomes less flexible, little cracks begin to show at the surface, and inside, the structure is becoming more and more brittle.  Is this sounding familiar?  Maybe you’re feeling this way yourself in your fight against Father Time; the next time you check your tires, remember how you feel after a long day of yard work and look more closely at what you’re riding on.

Tire manufacturers put a coating on their tires to protect them from the corrosive qualities of the air and UV rays, much like you might be slathering on moisturizer every day and night, but it only lasts so long before time has its way (You know I’m right, girls!).  In hot states like Florida, Arizona, etc., your vehicle’s tires battle the sun everyday, so you may not see your tires lasting quite as long as someone’s tires in Virginia, for instance.  Wet climates can eat away at the protective coating on your tires with water and dirt. Hot, dry climates basically bake your tires with use on hot roads and UV exposure.  So, Floridians, how do you think your tires will fare in the hot, wet weather of your tropical paradise?  You’re getting a double whammy.

Got a car that mostly just sits there and is occasionally driven, and now you’re wondering why the tires are all cracked?  Manufacturers put a waxy, protective coating on tires to help protect the rubber from the process of oxidation (the same process that produces rust).  Unfortunately, if tires just sit, they begin to break down more quickly.  This happens because tires that are regularly used have the protectants inside the tire slowly squeezed out onto the surface where they do their work.  No rolling, no squeezing, no working.  Hello, dry rot!  Petrochemicals and silicone oils, like the ones you encounter unknowingly everyday on the roads, also break down a tire’s protective coating.

So, what can you do to stop this process?  Not much.  You can help your tires weather time more smoothly by maintaining the proper pressure, checking their wear, using them on a regular basis, and protecting them as much as possible from the elements by storing your car in a garage or under other covering, but nothing lasts forever.  Note the manufacture date of your tires, maintain them, be responsible, and keep an eye out for signs of dry rot.  Your tires may look good if you’re just giving them the once over, but get down there with them and really look.  If they’re starting to show signs of dry rot, replace them.  Don’t keep riding around on them because they seem to have plenty of tread left.  Tread can’t save you when it’s so rotted that its flying off in chunks on the highway.

Those in the tire industry generally agree that a tire's life is about 6 years from the date of manufacture; tire manufacturers give them 10 years.  There's some wiggle room there, right?  A few states have wrestled with this wiggle room and tried to pin down a specific number as they work on laws about the buying and selling of used tires, but the reality is that there is no definitive answer right now.  Your best bet is to be aware of the age of your tires and keep an eye on them.  

Some places, especially stores that sell in bulk, will buy tires that are 4 or more years old, and while you might buy them cheap, think about what you're really getting--tires that are probably more than halfway through their life expectancy.  You might save a few bucks, but, in the long run, you will have to buy tires again sooner than you should.  Again we say, ask about the manufacture date.  The best decisions are informed decisions.

Now, some of you are customers who are looking to buy used tires, and there are some things you should know.  Pay attention when you're shopping around.  Where are the tires you're looking at being stored?  Often businesses that sell used tires store their tires outside, exposed to the elements.  What does that mean for you?  You may be getting a great price on a used tire, but are you getting a great deal when the tire you're looking to buy has plenty of tread but has been alternately soaking in the rain and baking in the heat for who knows how long?  Tread depth isn't the only consideration.  If you're tire(s) has been exposed to the elements for some time, then damage has been done and the life of the tire has been shortened.  At RNR, all of our tires, new and used, are stored inside a climate-controlled environment, not out in the open, so you're getting a tire that has seen the road (as you would expect from a used tire), and then was stored, usually still on the wheel, in our storage facility.  There's a difference.

Never seen dry rot before and want someone else to confirm or deny their condition or age?  Stop by any RNR store for a free tire inspection and we will let you know where you stand.

Bree

 

 

Rain, Rain Go Away: RNR Talks Rainy Season Safety Tips

Dear Bree,

It’s the rainy season here in Florida again, and I’m wondering if you can tell me what I should be doing tire-wise to keep myself safe on the road? 

Soaked in Sulphur Springs

 

 

 

 

Dear Soaked,

I’m familiar with the rainy season.  All of the sudden in the late afternoon, the sky opens up, drops a couple of inches of rain on you in about 10 minutes, then the sun comes back out and everyone enjoys a free steam bath, right?  I always hated getting stuck on the road when one of those storms hit.  Driving in them isn’t easy!  Here are a few things you should know about driving in the rain (tire specific and more): 

• Keep up with your routine tire maintenance—tire pressure and tread depth.  You can usually find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle on the inside edge of the driver’s side door; if you don’t see it, check the owner’s manual.  The number listed on the side of the tire is NOT the recommended tire pressure, but the maximum air pressure for the tire.  Find your recommended pressure and go with that.  If you need help checking the pressure, check out our blog all about how to do this.     
• Check your tread depth.  Everybody’s got a penny stashed somewhere in their car or at the bottom of their purse.  Find it.  Then, slip that little sucker between the treads on your tire, head down.  If you can see Abe’s head, then you need new tires.  Tread depth is an important factor to staying safe in the rain; proper tread depth can help prevent skids and hydroplaning. 
• Slow down!  When you drive slowly, more of the tire’s tread touches the road and this leads to better traction.
• Know how to deal with skids.  As rain falls, muck and oil already on the road mix together and make the road slick—and perfect for skidding!  If you feel your car start to skid, don’t panic!  Stay calm, apply firm, steady pressure to the brakes, and steer in the direction of the skid.  Don’t slam on the brakes (that goes along with ‘Don’t panic!’), and if you have anti-lock brakes, don’t pump them.  Firm and steady is the way to go in a skid.  *Note:  The first half-hour after rain begins (when the dry dirt and oil are mixing together with the rain) is the most slippery, so use extra caution then.
• Keep your distance.  It takes three times longer to break in wet conditions than in dry conditions.
• Learn how to avoid and deal with hydroplaning.  Avoiding is the first thing you should do because no one wants to hydroplane.  When your car hydroplanes, the water in front of your tires builds up faster than the weight of your car can displace it.  The water pressure makes your car rise up and slide along on a thin layer of water between your tires and the road.  Did you hear that part?  There’s a layer of water between your wheels and the road; as in, your tires aren’t touching the road.  That’s a problem.  You could be completely out of contact with the road, and at that point, who knows what could happen.  You could cross the center line into another lane, skid, or fly right off the road.  You don’t want to deal with any of these things.  If you want to avoid hydroplaning, then check your tire pressure and tread depth, slow down, avoid puddles and drive in the tracks of the car in front of you.  If you find yourself hydroplaning, don’t slam on the brakes or make sudden turns.  Gently ease your foot off of the accelerator until you feel the car slow down and make contact with the road again.  If you need to brake, then lightly pump the brakes, or if your car has ABS brakes, brake normally and your brakes should automatically take care of the pumping action.
• If the rain becomes too bad and the edges of the road are blurred or you can’t clearly make out the car in front of you, pull over off the road, preferably into a rest stop or parking lot.  If there’s no protected area available, pull as far off of the road as possible.  Always leave your headlights and hazards on when you’re stopped on the side of the road so that other motorists know you’re there.

The long and short of staying safe in the rain is this: Make sure your tires are properly inflated and in good shape, and use your common sense.  If you’re not sure about the condition of your tires, run on by your nearest RNR store and let us check them out for you!  If you need new ones, you’ll already be in the right place.:)  Be safe!

Bree

Feeling the Heat: Tires + Summer Heat = Trouble (Sometimes)

The Midwest and Northeast have been feeling the squeeze of a summer heat wave that just won’t seem to break.  The South is just hot, hot, hot all summer and the same goes for the Southwest.  What does all that heat mean on the road?  It can mean tire problems, so take heed and take care of your tires.

Let’s talk tire pressure.  If you’ve read many of my blogs, you’re probably thinking, “Not again with the tire pressure!”  Sorry, sisters, I’m saying it again.  If it seems like all roads lead back to tire pressure that’s just because so many of them actually do.  You need to maintain proper tire pressure!  In the summer months when it’s especially hot, tire pressure fluctuates with the heat (though not as much if you fill your tires with nitrogen.  Check this past blog out for more info on nitrogen fill!).  Your tire pressure can actually fluctuate as much as 1.9% for every 10 F temperature change.  Now, add to that ambient temperature change, the heat of the road and the heat of friction caused by the tire touching the road as it rolls.  It’s just plain old physics.  In one test performed by a tire maker, tires reached a temperature of 170 degrees after only one hour when the temperature outside was 73 degrees.  You can’t change physics; all you can do is try to prepare for it.

According to Bob Beasley of Beasley Tire Service in Houston, Texas, “As the tire loses air pressure, and more heat builds up, the tire starts to flex more. In addition to the 105-degree heat we’ve had lately, [it] will cause that tire to fly apart.”  That doesn’t sound good, does it?  And it’s not just you that you need to worry about.  Be mindful of other drivers when you’re on the highway, especially truckers.  Truckers call thrown treads “alligators.”  Know why?  Because rubber and steel flying off a big rig going 70 mph down the highway will take a bite out of you.  Physics, again.  In fact, this is the worst time of year for truckers and tires; so, you may want to keep your distance from the 18-wheelers traveling with you on the highway.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, from 2005 to 2009, 3,400 people died and 116,000 were injured in tire-related accidents.  That’s a lot of people.  Take care of your tires!  Here are a few things to consider to stay safe on the road this summer: 

1. Be mindful of other drivers around you.
2. Check the pressure in your tires.
3. Consider nitrogen fill for your tires (RNR does that!)
4. Check your tires for wear or damage.
5. Obey the speed limit and don’t travel at high speeds for long periods of time (if it can be avoided), especially in very hot weather.
6. Check the tread on your tire.  Low tread or bald tires are unsafe!
7. Don’t overload your vehicle.

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express are right here to help you this summer.  Whether its explaining the benefits of nitrogen fill, checking your tires for visible warning signs of potential problems, or helping you find a new set of tires to keep you and your family safe this summer—we’ve got you covered!

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express Wins Big at this Year’s APRO Rental Advertising Excellence Awards

RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express is celebrating a big win.  At this year’s APRO (Association of Progressive Rental Organizations) Rental Advertising Excellence Awards, RNR was selected from among hundreds of entries for 25 total awards (3 were awarded to Rental Concepts, an RNR franchisee in Arkansas), the most ever awarded to one company in a single year.  RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express took home an award in 11 of the 15 categories selected by APRO this year.  RNR has been working hard for years to make their advertising the best in the industry, and they have been rewarded—but this year went above and beyond.

The in-house marketing team at RNR, led by Jason Sexton, along with Angela Stork and Randy Cabrera, took home 12 RAE awards: 2 gold, five silver and 5 bronze.  Red Letter Studios, owned and operated by Adam Sutton, won 2 gold and 2 silver; and Out Of the Box Media, owned by Desiree Rivelli Tatum, took a gold, silver and bronze in Radio. Rental Concepts, via the work of Lisa Vail, won gold, silver and bronze in 60 second Radio Advertising, as well.  In addition to this impressive list, at the APRO conference in New Orleans on July 16^th, RNR also took home the Best in Show Award for the in-house and agency divisions.

Says RNR founder and President, Larry Sutton, “We have been participating in the RAE awards since the very first year we opened our doors back in 2000.  Over the years, we have been very fortunate to capture numerous RAE awards, more than any other company, as a matter of fact!  I am extremely pleased that our fabulous Marketing team has once again been recognized as the best in the country. They are an awesome group, and I am proud to have them all on my team.”

Where to Start: Tire Shopping 101 with RNR

Dear Bree,

I don’t know a stinking thing about tires, but I need some.  I have to get off my tush and do this thing already, but I’m a little intimidated to walk into a store knowing zilch.  So, I’m wondering: Can you help get me started?

I’m looking for tires for my car; nothing too fancy, I just need to get myself and the family safely around town.  Help!

Clueless

 

Dear Clueless,

 

You’ve come to the right place, and I feel your pain.  Once upon a time, I took my SUV in to get new tires, clueless as you, and when they asked me some basic questions about my vehicle, it was like they were speaking Greek.  They were really patient with me, we went outside together and they got the info they needed, but I went home feeling like an idiot for walking in blind.  So, a baseline is a good thing.

How about going onto our RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express website and taking a browse?  We’ve got lots of brands to choose from, and we’ll walk you through things.  Here’s the info you’re going to need to get started: make, model and year of your car.  Then you’re going to need a little info about the size of tire that you want.  If you want to stick with what you have now, go out and look right on the side of your tire, and you’ll find the info you need.  Then you can choose the brand you want to look at, or you can choose “any brand.”  Start there.

Now, if you don’t know much (or anything) about these brands, go to the company’s websites and check them out.  They all have one.  Another tip:  Consumer Reports.  Narrow down some choices (brand, size, performance, price, whatever), then go to Consumer Reports and do a search.  See what other people have to say about the tires you’re looking at.

Next step, come see us.  We’ll walk you through the store so you can see and feel the tires you’ve been looking at online (depending on stock). 

We carry, of course, the big national brands that you’ll recognize right away (Bridgestone, BFGoodrich, Firestone—just to name a few), but we also carry some really great brands that, if you’re new to this tire-buying experience, you might not know, like Falken, Pirelli, etc. (you can find a complete list on our website).  These are great brands, too.

One last thing:  You’ve actually stumbled upon a really good time to buy.  RNR Custom Wheels and Tire Express has a pretty great special going through mid-August.  Right now, $40 will pay your first month on a complete set of tires installed on your car.  If you decide to go with Falken brand passenger tires, you’ll even get a $50 rebate check in the mail from Falken.  Pretty good deal, huh?  So, go to our site, take a look around, do some research, and come see us!

 

Bree

Are You Tire Smart, Ladies?

I want to hear you all answer yes!  That’s why I’m here!  Recently, the RMA (Rubber Manufacturer’s Association) did a little survey to find out how many US drivers are “tire smart.”  “Define smart,” you say? 

According to the RMA, “tire smart” drivers are “those who know to check tire pressure monthly; know to check tires when they are cold (before driving); and know where to find the correct inflation pressure for their vehicle’s tires (a tire information label on the driver’s door or door jamb or in the owner’s manual).”  Now, girls, if you’ve been reading my blog at all, you’re darn near geniuses because we’ve been over these things a million times!  Apparently, more girls (and guys and young people) need to start reading this blog, though. 

The study found that only 20 percent of men and 14 percent of women are tire smart.  I can’t just pick on the ladies on this one—seems that the majority of US drivers have a few things to learn when it comes to their tires, and the younger generation needs to add a tire course to their driver’s education curriculum.   Among the older set (age 60 and older), 27 percent are tire smart.  That’s getting better, right?  Sure, but when you think about this next number, you may want to stay off the roads: only 8 percent of drivers age 18 to 39 know how to check their tire pressure the right way  (If you have questions about how to check your tire pressure, see my blog, "The Top Ten Things Every Girl Should Know to Save Her Own Butt (Tire Version))."

 

Know what happens when you drive around on tires that need air?  You waste fuel, you wear your tires out sooner than you should, and you’re courting fate.  Check out these two factoids from the RMA:

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle crashes involving tires contribute to 195 fatalities annually.
• The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that properly inflated tires can save about 11 cents a gallon at today’s gas prices.

I think those are pretty impressive statistics!  As Americans, I think it’s safe to say that we could stand to learn a few things about tires and about tire maintenance and safety.  National Tire Safety Week was way back at the beginning of June, but it’s never too late to learn what you need to know about tire safety.  Read this blog, do some research or just come into your nearest RNR store and ask questions!  Keeping your tires properly maintained is about safety, but it’s also about getting the most out of your investment.  Here’s a little something from the RMA to help you remember the basics:  

Be Tire Smart – Play Your PART

Pressure: Check tire pressure monthly with a tire gauge and inflate to vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure.

Alignment: Misalignment of wheels can cause uneven and rapid tread-wear.

Rotation: Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to help you achieve more uniform wear.

Tread: Advanced and unusual wear can reduce the ability of tread to grip the road in adverse conditions.

Stay safe and see you soon!

 

Bree

P.S.  If you want to maintain proper tire pressure and make your tires last longer, look into filling your tires with nitrogen.  My blog, “Nitrogenfor Tires? What Happened to Plain, Old Air?” will give you all the info you need on nitrogen fill for tires!