What is a critical factor in maintaining vehicle tires?

Ensuring proper inflation and tread depth is a critical factor in maintaining vehicle tires because both aspects significantly affect the safety, performance, and longevity of the tires. Proper inflation ensures that the tires have the right amount of air pressure, which contributes to optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and even tire wear. Under-inflated tires can lead to increased tire wear and a higher risk of tire blowouts, while over-inflated tires can reduce the contact area with the road, affecting traction.

Tread depth is equally important; it provides the necessary grip on the road, especially in wet conditions. Tires with insufficient tread depth can lead to hydroplaning and reduced braking effectiveness, posing serious safety risks. Therefore, regularly checking and maintaining both tire pressure and tread depth is essential for safe driving and prolonging the life of the tires.

While other options like cleaning tires or rotating them have their benefits, they do not address the fundamental safety concerns that arise from improper tire inflation and inadequate tread depth. Regular tire rotation can help manage wear but does not substitute for ensuring that tires are correctly inflated or have sufficient tread.