Hassle-Free Warranty! pg. 5 ASE Certification pg. 34

Customer Copy
Hassle-Free
Warranty! pg. 5
ASE Certification pg. 34
Join the Tire-Rama
V.I.P Club! pg. 21
Time for New Tires? pg. 31
Peace of Mind.
Forks in the Road
We tackle common misconceptions about Tires and Car Care
Internet vs. Tire-Rama .............................. Pg. 14
Big Box Store vs. Tire-Rama ....................... Pg. 22
Shade Tree Mechanic or NAPA AutoCare?...... Pg. 26
Tires 101
Anatomy of a Tire .................................... Pg. 30
Time for New Tires?.................................. Pg. 31
Learn how to know when it’s time
Automotive Services
Looking Up! ............................................ Pg. 16
Automotive Service Excellence ..................... Pg. 34
Explore a fundamental difference
ASE Certification explained
Community Involved
Thank You, Veterans ................................. Pg. 10
Habitat for Humanity ................................ Pg. 32
Special Olympics ...................................... Pg. 32
Tire-Rama Managers Pitch In
A decade of commitment to Montana athletes and their families
About Us
Tire-Rama VIP’s ....................................... Pg. 2
Tire-Rama Story........................................ Pg. 3
Join the Club! ......................................... Pg. 21
in this issue
Introduction ............................................ Pg. 4
A full listing of Tire-Rama
Locations can be found on
the inside back cover.
LOOKING UP
1
www.tirerama.com
Dave Wehr
President/Chief Executive Officer
[email protected]
Trent Fuhrman
Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
John Tompkins
Vice President Store Operations
[email protected]
Greg Passon
Operations Manager
[email protected]
Greg Hart
Commercial Sales Director
[email protected]
Glen Korf
Commercial Credit Manager
[email protected]
Corporate Office
1401 Industrial Avenue
Billings, MT 59104-3509
1-800-828-1642
Published by Maverick Group for
Tire-Rama
All rights reserved.
All editorial content, graphics
and advertising material in this
publication were created by and
are the property of Maverick Group
unless otherwise stated, and may
not be reproduced in any form
without permission.
For further information:
[email protected]
D
ear Customer,
In today’s world, you have a lot of choices.
So if you’re sitting in one of our waiting rooms and
reading this magazine, I want to personally thank you
for choosing Tire-Rama.
Whether you’re here for a set of tires, tire repair,
mechanical services or regular maintenance, our entire
team is dedicated to delivering the highest quality
products and services.
I want to personally assure you that Tire-Rama cares
about you and your vehicle’s needs. Tell us how we’re
doing. We have built our reputation one customer at a
time, and value your input.
Thanks again for choosing Tire-Rama, and
happy driving!
Sincerely,
Dave Wehr, President
Tire-Rama Corporation
Tire-Rama
Story
T
“I want to take a moment to
let you know how consistently
pleased I am with the customer
service Gallatin County Motor
Pool receives at East Main Tire
Rama in Bozeman. They are
always friendly, knowledgeable
and able to service and repair
our aging fleet in a timely manner
and at a competitive price...
In fact, the convenience and
service reliability bring many of
my co-workers and me into the
shop with our personal vehicles
also.”
—Sincerely, Wendy
Facebook Like us on
Facebook to keep up on
the latest tips, news and
special events.
ire-Rama was started on June 17, 1977, with
the merger of B.L.M. Tire, a multi-state company, and
Hasty Tire of Rudyard and Havre, Montana. The name
“TIRE-RAMA” was selected at that time as a means of
identifying the new Company to the public.
Tire-Rama now has 45 locations across four states:
Montana, Wyoming, Idaho and Washington. Along with a
wide variety of tires for passenger cars and trucks, fleet and
specialty tires for construction and agriculture, and 24/7
On-Site Tire Service, Tire-Rama stores offer a complete
menu of automotive accessories and services.
The management team at Tire-Rama got their start
changing tires and moved up through the ranks. They
know that great results start with great people, and continue
to choose employees who demonstrate a strong work ethic,
grounded in a commitment to customer service.
Tire-Rama takes great pride in the quality of its people,
and will continue as the premier independent tire dealer
by constantly focusing on its customers and on the goal of
providing quality services and products at affordable prices.
Tire-Rama V.I.P. Club
Join today for immediate
benefits: Loyalty Rewards,
Early Notification of Sale Events,
Exclusive Offers and Discounts.
It’s easy and it’s free!
www.tirerama.com We’ve
filled our website with useful
information: Find a location near
you, research tire options, apply
for a Tire-Rama credit card, join
the V.I.P. Club and more.
LOOKING UP
3
Forks in the road
Forks in the Road
You’ve got decisions to make about tires,
auto maintenance, repairs… we call these
decision points “Forks in the Road”.
In the following pages we’ve laid out
the pros and cons of several ‘Forks in the
Road’ you may encounter in the life of
your car, to help you make an informed
decision:
• Looking Up!
The Hoist vs. the Pit
• Tire-Rama’s Hassle-Free
Warranty
• Internet Buying vs. Local
• Big Box Stores vs. Local
• Choosing a Mechanic
Happy Driving!
4
LOOKING UP
Hassle-Free
Tire Replacement Warranty
We came up with the Tire-Rama Hassle-Free
Replacement Warranty specifically to cover
all-wheel drive tires, but we now offer this
kind of peace of mind on all approved
passenger and light truck tires.
LOOKING UP
5
Tire-Rama
Hassle-Free
Warranty
Doesn’t Cost
...It Pays!
Think of it as an insurance
policy against future
replacement costs due to
non-repairable damage.
The Hassle-Free
Warranty is available
on all approved sets of
four new tires purchased
from Tire-Rama. Ask
about it today!
Tire-Rama’s Hassle-Free Warranty
By the Numbers
Without
With
Hassle-FreeHassle-Free
WarrantyWarranty
Initial 4 Tire Purchase
$561.80
$644.56
Replace 2 Tires
$275.90
$ 71.38
Replace 4 Tires $551.80
$142.76
(Includes $10 disposal Fee)
Net Results: Customer with Hassle-Free Warranty
saves up to $501.80
*S
ave an additional 10% when you open
a Tire-Rama Credit Card account, O.A.C.
See store for details.
6
LOOKING UP
W
e developed the Tire-Rama Hassle-Free
Replacement Warranty specifically to cover all-wheel drive
tires, but we now offer this kind of peace of mind on all
approved passenger and light truck tires.
In days gone by, minor road damage to tires could
often be safely repaired, but not anymore. We noticed the
directive first with All-Wheel Drives, but the change has
extended to many vehicles. With today’s highly engineered
automobiles, it is crucial that all four tires are exactly the
same size. You risk expensive damage to the drivetrain if
the tire sizes are even slightly different. Tire-Rama knows;
we’ve seen that kind of damage first-hand.
That is why most vehicle manufacturers and reputable
tire stores will not replace a single tire when one is
damaged due to accident or mishap – all four tires
may need to be replaced. It comes as a shock to most
people, and a big expense.
You don’t have to take our word for it; check your own
owner’s manual to see what your vehicle’s manufacturer
recommends.
Tire-Rama’s Hassle-Free Tire Replacement Warranty
is designed to protect your vehicle and your wallet. For a
nominal cost it covers replacement of all four tires for
failure due to workmanship or materials or a nonrepairable road hazard for 3 years from the date of
purchase or down to 3/32nds of an inch of remaining
tread, whichever comes first.
Of course, if tires can be safely repaired according to
current Rubber Manufacturer’s Association guidelines,
Tire-Rama will do so. Please ask to see the guidelines if
you have any questions about tire repairs.
Add peace of mind for just pennies on the dollar.
Purchase the Tire-Rama Hassle-Free Tire Replacement
Warranty for your new tires today.
You don’t have to take our
word for it; check your own
owner’s manual to see what
your vehicle’s manufacturer
recommends.
“Just wanted to let you know and say thank you to Roy and the tire person (sorry didn’t get his
name) that helped us with our tire issue. Last Saturday we had our 2nd flat tire on our trailer. It
was 4:00 and the store was closing. Roy and his tire person stayed over an hour after closing to
wait for us to get there and replace our tire. It restores my view that there are still good people
in this world. If asked I will be telling people that they should buy their tires at Tire-Rama.
Thanks for choosing good employees. Their attitudes reflect back on your Corporation.”
—Teri & Bob
LOOKING UP
7
BUY 3 OIL
CHANGES
GET 1
FREE!
For the location near you, visit www.tirerama.com
Some restrictions apply.
8
LOOKING UP
Because life happens
• 10% OFF FIRST PURCHASE charged to your
NEW Tire-Rama Card!*
• Extended terms on qualifying purchases!
• Online account management.
• Stress-free financing with every purchase.
• Low monthly payments!
• No annual fee.
* See store for details.
WE ARE DRIVEN
MAVERICK
GROUP
LOOKING
UP
1
9
Thank You for
10
LOOKING UP
Your Service!
FREE Oil Change
for
Active Duty Military & Veterans*
ONE DAY ONLY!
Thursday, July 11, 2013 • 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Pass it on!
Only at
Select
* First come/first served.
One oil change per person.
Present Military ID or other
proof of military service.
S
peaking in Spokane,
Washington, John Tompkins, Vice
President of Store Operations for
Tire-Rama Corporation said, “Our
Business Development Group wanted
something we could do on a local level
to honor our servicemen and women.
The idea of a free oil change just sort of
grew over time, and Tire-Rama is proud
to have been a part of this event.”
In total twenty-four automotive
service facilities, including twelve
Tire-Rama locations, gave away 486
free oil changes for military personnel
Thank you for your service.
in Spokane and the surrounding area
during a two hour time period.
LOOKING UP
11
ALIGNMENT BATTERIES HOSES MAIN
WIPER BLADES•OIL CHANGES•SHOCK
STRUTS•BELTS•HOSES•BRAKE SERVI
AUTO REPAIR•ALIGNMENT•BATTERIES
MAINTENANCE•WIPER BLADES•MAIN
OIL CHANGES•SHOCKS•STRUTS•BELT
BELTS•HOSES•BRAKE SERVICE•AUTO
BATTERIES•MAINTENANCE•OIL CHAN
BRAKE SERVICE•AUTO REPAIR•WIPER
ALIGNMENT•BATTERIES•HOSES•MAIN
WIPER BLADES•OIL CHANGES•SHOCK
STRUTS•BELTS•HOSES•BRAKE SERVI
AUTO REPAIR•ALIGNMENT•BATTERIES
MAINTENANCE•WIPER BLADES•MAIN
OIL CHANGES•SHOCKS•STRUTS•BELT
BRAKE SERVICE•AUTO REPAIR•WIPER
ALIGNMENT•BATTERIES•HOSES•MAIN
WIPER BLADES•OIL CHANGES•SHOCK
STRUTS•BELTS•HOSES•BRAKE SERVI
AUTO REPAIR•ALIGNMENT•BATTERIES
WIPER BLADES•OIL CHANGES•SHOCK
We do:
12
LOOKING UP
NTENANCE
KS•STRUTS
ICE•WIPER BLADES
S•BELTS
NTENANCE
TS•HOSES
O REPAIR
NGES•BELTS
R BLADES
NTENANCE
KS•OIL CHANGES
ICE•SHOCKS
S•HOSES
NTENANCE
TS•HOSES
R BLADES
NTENANCE
KS•STRUTS
ICE•WIPER BLADES
S•BELTS
KS•STRUTS
LOOKING UP
13
Thinking of
Buying Tires
Over the
Internet?
Some shoppers may be
tempted by what they
think are low online tire
prices—but are they
really a smart purchase?
14
LOOKING UP
If you’re like most folks, the cost of new tires
has gone up along with everything else. Many of
today’s vehicles call for tires that are bigger and
wider than what you remember from years gone
by. Maybe the manufacturer recommends high
performance or a specific tire style.
Some shoppers may be tempted by what they
think are low online tire prices—but are they
really a smart purchase?
First, tires are heavy—about thirty pounds
apiece. Don’t forget to factor in shipping and
handling charges when you’re checking prices.
And those big heavy things are going to be
delivered to your doorstep… are you prepared
to pick them up and load them into your rig
when they arrive?
Now let’s talk mounting and balancing—
putting the tires on the rims and properly balancing
them so that the tire rotates smoothly. You’ll have
to bring them into a local shop and pay for that.
And now someone has to put the wheels on
your car, using the proper amount of torque so as
not to damage the lug bolts. It’s serious business,
and you shouldn’t trust it to just anyone.
What about tire rotation per the manufacturer’s
recommendations to ensure even tire wear? Who
will handle flat tires and other repairs?
You’re into your car for the long haul. It’s an
expensive, high tech machine. Buy from your
local Tire-Rama and you can take advantage of
added services, like free rotations and flat repairs
for the life of the tire.
You see it’s not really about price. It’s about
value. Think twice before you make an online
purchase you’re going to regret.
Think Tire-Rama, your neighborhood tire
and service center.
You May be On Your Own.
Before you make a costly online
tire commitment, we strongly
suggest you spend a few minutes
on the phone with the local repair/
service shop you’d like to handle
installation.
Many local shops have made the
decision that they will not handle
tires they don’t sell. They don’t
want the hassle and they sure
don’t want the liability.
No mounting, no balancing,
no installation, no rotation, no
repairs. You’re on your own.
Forks in the road
Think Again!
Internet Purchase vs. Tire-Rama
Tire-Rama. By the Numbers
Internet
Tire-Rama
PurchasePurchase
Initial 4 Tire Purchase
$700.00
$800.00
Freight (average)
$ 72
N/A
Balance
$ 80
Free
Mounting $ 80
Free
Brake System Inspection ?
Free
Alignment Inspection ?
Free
Initial Purchase Real Cost $932.00 $800.00*
Hassle-Free Warranty** Eligible No
Yes
On-going Costs
Rotation & Balance
Puncture Repair
$40/Set
$25/Tire
Free
Free
* Save an additional 10% when you open
a Tire-Rama Credit Card account, O.A.C.
See store for details.
** See page 6 for more Hassle-Free Warranty information LOOKING UP
15
Forks in the road
Looking Up!
The Hoist
vs.The Pit
“On Aug 7, 2013, as we
traveled from Port Orchard
WA. to Montana on vacation
we experienced a coolant
system problem which your
staff quickly diagnosed as
a seized up fan. We both
thought that it was over and
above all expectations that
you sent someone to Coeur
D’Alene to pick up the fans
while another fella took the
old part out! You had us on
the road quickly & we had
a great time! Thanks to you
and the crew.”
—Ken & Joyce
You may have noticed something they call ‘the pit’ at
some quick lube locations. You (or one of their service
people if you’re a bit squeamish) drive your car into a
service bay, straddling a cement pit where a technician
walks under your car to access the drain plug and
oil filter.
There are reasons to service your car this way—
and none of them have to do with better auto service.
It has more to do with money - the cost of liability
insurance, the cost of hoist equipment versus digging
a pit and the ongoing inspection and maintenance of
that equipment.
You could argue that the pit works fine for oil
changes. Matter of fact, that’s the only service these
shops are designed for. Anything else is really
stretching it. Even a simple task like rotating the tires
is complicated if you can’t lift the car off the ground.
Now compare that with a full-service auto care
center like Tire-Rama. We intentionally put your car
on a hoist for service. Lifting all four wheels off the
ground gives our technicians the ability to inspect and
observe other critical systems while they perform basic
services. That list includes, but is not limited to:
•
•
•
•
•
Tires and Wheels
Drivetrain
Steering Systems
Suspension Systems
Exhaust Systems
I guess you could continue to use separate facilities for
tire service, oil changes and other mechanical repairs,
but I don’t know why anyone would want to. Make
Tire-Rama your ‘all service center’ and give our service
technicians a chance to look out for future automotive
needs by ‘looking up’.
16
LOOKING UP
Make Tire-Rama your
‘all service center’
and give our service
technicians a chance
to look out for future
automotive needs by
‘looking up’.
Your One Stop for T
18
LOOKING UP
Tires & Auto Repair!
LOOKING UP
19
20
LOOKING UP
Join the Club!
The Tire-Rama V.I.P. Club!
Members receive immediate benefits:
V.I.P.
Red C
arp
et Club
M
Preno embership
tific
Loy
Exclu ation of M alty Rewar
sive O
aj
ds
ffers &or Sales E
Disco vents
unts
Apply today to receive a
V.I.P. Membership Kit:
•Tire-Rama Cap
•Gift
•Membership Card
• Loyalty Rewards
• Early Notification of Sale Events
• Exclusive Offers and Discounts
• Complimentary Service Reminder
• Online Appointment Scheduling
It’s easy and it’s FREE!
Fill out the card in this magazine,
ask for an application at the Tire-Rama counter,
or visit www.tirerama.com to apply today!
LOOKING UP
21
Forks in the road
Big Box
Stores
vs.
Local
22
LOOKING UP
Your tires are one—make that four—of the
most important parts of your vehicle. In the
interest of trying to save a few dollars, you may
be tempted to go to a big box store or buying
club for replacement tires.
Now just because you’ve found a great place
to buy muffins doesn’t necessarily mean
it’s a great place to buy tires.
C
ompare every feature, apples to
apples. Start with brands. Tire-Rama carries
well-known brands like Cooper, Yokohama,
Bridgestone, Firestone, and other nationally
recognized brands. Tire-Rama also carries
specialty tires for every application from an
ATV, wheelbarrow or trailer to RV, agricultural,
heavy-duty and commercial uses.
Compare the manufacturer’s warranty. This
is usually stated in terms of lifespan or mileage. A
tire built to last for 30,000 or 55,000 miles is not
built the same as a tire built to last 80,000 miles or
more. Be sure to ask about this important factor.
Then there’s the human factor. Who, exactly, is
mounting and balancing tires and answering
questions at the Big Box store? Did the manager
call someone in from housewares to man the
phone? Your neighborhood Tire-Rama is staffed
with professionals from the front counter to the
hands on guys in the shop. Tire-Rama trains
our teams in procedures and processes; our
manufacturers provide training and product
information, and many of our technicians hold
ASE certifications beyond wheels and tires.
Finally, consider this. The Big Box store doesn’t
offer mechanical repair services. So if they strip
a lug nut, break a bolt, or some other mechanical
mishap occurs while your vehicle is up on the
hoist, you are just out of luck. They can’t diagnose
a problem and they can’t fix it. Period. Ever.
We can’t tell you where to shop, of course. We
can give you the information you need to make an
informed decision about your next set of tires.
Big Box Store Purchase vs.
Tire-Rama. By the Numbers
Big Box
Tire-Rama
PurchasePurchase
Initial 4 Tire Purchase
$700.00
$800.00
Balance
$ 80
Free
Mounting $ 80
Free
Brake System Inspection ?
Free
Alignment Inspection ?
Free
Initial Purchase Real Cost $860.00 $800.00*
Hassle-Free Warranty** Eligible No
Yes
* Save an additional 10% when you open
a Tire-Rama Credit Card account, O.A.C.
See store for details.
** See page 6 for more Hassle-Free Warranty information LOOKING UP
23
When we Order and Install
Quality NAPA Parts you get:
Up to 24 Month/24,000 Mile
“Peace of Mind” Warranty
Honored at 15,000 Locations
Nationwide*
ASE Certified Technician
On-Staff
Covered by Liability Insurance
NAPA AutoCare Code of Ethics
When You Need it Done Right!
Six months same as cash by using your Tire-Rama Credit Card.
*Restrictions apply. Ask for details in the store.
24
LOOKING UP
Your Vehicle is Your Livelihood.
Ours Too.
F L E E T
S E R V I C E S
• Repairs ~ Maintenance ~ Tires
• Fleet Pricing
• National Accounts Welcome
• Nationwide NAPA Guarantee
www.tirerama.com
Welcome Home.
Ask about the Tire-Rama Credit Card and enjoy
10% off the first purchase charged to your card!
More Than Just a Tire Store!
www.tirerama.com
AUTOCARE
CENTER
Home of the Hassle Free Tire Replacement Warranty.
All vehicle maintenance and repairs.
LOOKING UP
25
Gone are the days when any mechanic
worth his salt could slide under a vehicle
with two wrenches and then slide back
out ten minutes later with a starter motor
in his hands.
26
LOOKING UP
Times have changed and so
have our cars and trucks.
Just lift the hood! If that
doesn’t convince you, look
at the price of the average
new car, and the mileage
you expect to get out of it.
Today’s motor vehicles are carefully engineered
puzzles of sensors, relays, circuits, and space age
connectors that demand tools and knowledge
not always readily available to yesterday’s doit-yourselfer or the neighborhood independent
mechanic.
Your vehicle is an expensive, high tech
machine, built to travel safely at high speeds for
many, many miles. Does this mean you’re stuck
traveling back to the dealership for repairs and
maintenance? Is there some middle ground?
Tire-Rama NAPA AutoCare means quality.
You don’t have to sacrifice trust and peace of mind
when finding a repair center for your automobile,
and you don’t have to go to the dealership. Every
Tire-Rama location is also a NAPA AutoCare Center.
To qualify for this nationwide designation, we are
required to meet a quality standard based on
integrity, qualifications and expertise. When you
see the NAPA AutoCare sign displayed, you can
be assured that you will receive the best in class
service that you deserve.
From routine maintenance to major repairs,
Tire-Rama has got you covered. Our ASE-certified
technicians (see page 34) use high-quality NAPA
parts and provide exceptional work; work that you
can feel confident about, knowing it’s backed by a
24 month, 24,000 mile Nationwide Peace of Mind
Warranty. Travel with confidence. As NAPA
AutoCare Centers, Tire-Rama is a part of the largest
network of independent mechanics in the U.S.
Forks in the road
Shade Tree Mechanic
vs. Tire-Rama
NAPA AutoCare
We use quality NAPA Auto Parts!
LOOKING UP
27
We value our Farm and Ag customers, whether their
spread is the back yard or the back forty. From a horse
trailer to your field tractor, farm truck to cattle-hauler,
call Tire-Rama first for tires and mechanical services.
www.tirerama.com
for a location near you
28
LOOKING UP
Once again I am compelled to write. I own an equestrian facility, and
keeping my vehicles and tractors in operation saves me time,
work and stress. Over the years I’ve had to replace tires,
batteries, water pumps, hoses, tubes, etc. I always call Bill
Siegel/Airway Heights and I always get the
same answer. “NO PROBLEM, I’ll take care of you.”
This time it was rear tires for my John Deere. Even the dealer
for John Deere told me he couldn’t find replacement tires
for my 15 yr old rig. One call to Bill, “No Problem,
give me a few minutes to find out where I can
get those tires.”
Find them he did! Your boys go to
extra lengths to satisfy. They just don’t
sell tires, they sell perfection.
Sincerely,
Jeffrey Lambert,
Owner Prairie Sky
Equestrian Center,
Spokane, WA
LOOKING UP
29
Normal width of tire
in millimeters
U.S. DOT tire identification
number
Ratio of height to width
(aspect ratio)
Radial
Rim diameter code
X
S MA
N
M+
UF
EWALL 2 PLIES 2
XXX
• SID
X
XC
0HXX CORD
OR
Severe snow conditions
DO
Tire ply composition and
materials used
Passenger car tire
00/00R00
P0 C0000 • TREAD 4 PLI 0
E
S
•2
E T MAL9 AB
XX
Treadwear, traction and
temperature grades
TIRE N
AM
EA
ATUR
PER
M
E
si) • RADIAL • TU
(00p
AT
BEL
N
P0
k
ES
O
0
I
S•
00
SS
TREADW
EAR
RER
000
U
g
(
k
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
TR
lbs)
T
OAD
L
M
AC
.
AX
C
T
AX
.P
M
A D•
RE
Max. permissable
inflation pressure
Load index & speed
symbol
anatomy of a tire
Tread:
Ply:
Size:
Siping or
Winter Studs:
30
LOOKING UP
The primary function of tread design is to divert water from beneath
the tire to improve traction. Tread pattern and styles vary by conditions—
off-road tires, snow tires, rain tires, summer tires, highway tread.
Tread design is the result of years of research and engineering.
The number of plies indicates the number of layers making up the
thickness of the tire—the higher the number, the better able that tire
is to resist damage and punctures. The proper tire width and height are crucial to good handling, confident
braking and driving comfort. (Think about it—you wouldn’t last long
wearing the wrong size shoes either.) The sizing numbers communicate
vital information; as an example: 265/75R15: The first number is the width
of the tire in millimeters, in this example, about 10.43” wide. The second
number is the proportion of the height of the tire from the rim to the tread
to the width… or 75%. In this example, that’s about 7.8”. The last number,
15, is the rim size in inches. So this tire is 7.8” + 15” rim + 7.8” or 30.6”
tall from the ground to the top. It’s a pretty tall tire for a 15” rim, so it is
probably for an SUV or light truck.
Depending upon state or local legislation, you may elect to have your tires
‘siped’, which adds shallow cuts in the tread to expose more surface for
better traction, or have tires ‘studded’, adding metal pegs to the tread
for enhanced gripping in snow and ice.
So you
need to
buy
tires?
Tires are more than an
accessory; your tires are
the only thing that connects
your vehicle to the road.
When it’s time for new
tires, be sure you
thoroughly investigate
what the vehicle
manufacturer—and
knowledgeable tire
experts—recommend.
How do you know when do you need new tires? Here are a few things to consider:
1. Performance and
handling. Does the
ride feel different to
you than it did when
the tires were new?
Vibration, braking
problems or loss of
traction can all indicate
that it’s time for new
rubber.
2. Depth of tread.
3. Bars are the small
The old ‘Lincoln penny’
trick of inserting a
Lincoln head penny
upside down into the
tread is one way to
measure tread depth.
If you can see the
top of Lincoln’s head,
you’re down to 1/16”
tread or less—
definitely time for
new tires.
bridges that form
between your treads.
If the bars are obvious
or becoming flush with
the tire’s tread, it’s time
for new tires.
4.
Deep cracks
or damage to the
sidewalls. Tire tread
is not the only place
that indicates wear.
Cracks or bulges in the
sidewalls should be
assessed immediately
to avoid failure
or blowout.
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31
Managers and employees from Spokane
area Tire-Rama locations have come out
in force to volunteer in the Deer Park
Habitat project known as Hope Meadows,
located in Deer Park, Washington. Habitat
for Humanity-Spokane broke ground
on this project in the fall of 2010 with
the goal of completing 114 homes over
a ten-year time span. Like other Habitat
for Humanity organizations around the
country, the Spokane chapter doesn’t
build for people, but with them.
Prospective homeowners must
contribute ‘sweat equity’ to their home.
Tire-Rama manager Greg Harper first
got involved with Habitat for Humanity
in 2012 along with a group of volunteers
from Deer Park school. “We happen to
live in Deer Park, so it’s easy to see what’s
happening on the Hope Meadows
project,” he stated recently.
The Tire-Rama crews first volunteered
in early spring when there was still snow
on the ground, and gathered again to
volunteer during the summer months.
There’s an element of good-natured
competition among the various Tire-Rama
locations, and the teams see this volunteer
project is a real team-builder. “It’s great to
get together like this on a project outside
the workplace,” Harper said.
“It is a dream come true. We
had a little yard for a garden,
some fruit trees and berries.
There was even a park next
door. Finally, my family feels
stable for the first time.”
—Kaili, Habitat family
Community
Involved
Tire-Rama continues to pledge their
support to Special Olympics Montana
from the Corporate Offices in Billings
to the individual store locations across
the state to the Tire-Rama employees
who volunteer their time as coaches and
at annual events and other fund-raising
activities.
Tire-Rama has donated a set of tires
to the Annual Special Olympics Montana
raffle each spring, and sells raffle tickets
at each Montana Tire-Rama location.
We estimate that Tire-Rama has given
500 volunteer activity hours, and sold
over 5,000 raffle tickets over the past
five years.
Special Olympics Montana currently
serves about 2200 Athletes of all ages
across the state, and has set a goal of
serving 3000 by the year 2020.
32
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33
Why ASE?
Finding a competent auto technician need not be a matter of chance. Much of the guesswork
has been eliminated, thanks to the national program conducted by the non-profit National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
ASE tests and certifies automotive professionals in all major technical areas of repair and service. The
ASE program is national in scope and has industry-wide acceptance and recognition. ASE-certified
technicians and parts specialists can be found at every type of repair facility, from dealerships, service
stations, and franchises to parts stores, independent garages, and even municipal fleets.
34
LOOKING UP
...& what is it?
Certification Benefits Motorists
ASE certifies the technical competence
of individual technicians, not repair
facilities. Before taking ASE certification
tests, many technicians attend training
classes or study on their own in order to
brush up on their knowledge. By passing
difficult, national tests, ASE certified
technicians prove their technical
competence to themselves, to their
employers, and to their customers.
What’s more, because the ASE program
is primarily voluntary, ASE certification
becomes a self-selecting credential that
weeds out the incompetent. And while
ASE does not certify repair shops or
police individual business practices, it
stands to reason that those shop owners
and managers who support their service
employees’ efforts to become technically
certified will be as concerned about the
other aspects of their business as well.
How Certification Works
About 100,000 technicians take ASE
tests each May and November at over
700 locations. Technicians who pass at
least one exam and fulfill the two-year
work experience requirement become
ASE certified. Those who pass a battery
of exams (and fulfill the experience
requirement) earn Master Technician
status. The tests, developed by industry
experts with oversight from ASE’s own
in-house pros, are administered by ACT,
the same group known for its college
entrance exams.
There are specialty exams covering
all major areas of repair. There are eight
tests for auto technicians alone: Engine
Repair, Engine Performance, Electrical/
Electronic Systems, Brakes, Heating
and Air Conditioning, Suspension and
Steering, Manual Drive Train and Axles,
and Automatic Transmissions. (There
are also exams for collision repair/paint
technicians, damage estimators, parts
specialists, and others.) ASE certification
is not for life, ASE requires technicians
to re-test every five years to keep up with
technology and to remain certified. All
ASE credentials have expiration dates.
Finding ASE-Certified
Technicians
Repair establishments with at least one
ASE technician are permitted to display
the ASE sign. Each ASE professional is
issued personalized credentials listing his
or her exact area(s) of certification
and an appropriate shoulder insignia.
Technicians are also issued certificates
that employers often post in the
customer-service area. And employers
often display the blue and white ASE
sign as well.
Choosing the Right Technician
As with other professionals-physicians
come to mind-automotive technicians
often specialize. So it’s wise to ask the
shop owner or service manager for
a technician who is certified in the
appropriate area, say, brakes, engine
repair, or air conditioning.
The National Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE) was founded
in 1972 as a non-profit, independent
organization dedicated to improving
the quality of automotive service and
repair through the voluntary testing and
certification of automotive technicians.
ASE-certified technicians wear blue and
white ASE shoulder insignia and carry
credentials listing their exact areas(s)
of certification. Their employers often
display the blue and white ASE sign.
This article provided
by 1972-2013 National
Institute for Automotive
Service Excellence (ASE).
All rights reserved.
Every Tire-Rama location has at least one ASE Certified Technician on the staff.
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35
Are You Ready?
We Do:
Snow Tires & Wheels • All Season Tires • Siping • Alignments
Tune-Ups • Oil Changes • Brake Service • Free Battery Checks
www.tirerama.com
Over 45 Tire-Rama Locations to Serve You!
2208 Central Ave.
1429 Grand Ave.
1001 East Main
2409 4th Ave. North
2550 Gabel Rd.
HWY 10 West
Billings, MT
Billings, MT
Billings, MT
Billings, MT
Billings, MT
Miles City, MT
59102-4645
59102-3103
59105-2543
59101-1315
59102-7330
59301-1137
(406) 656-2227
(406) 245-3161
(406) 245-2868
(406) 248-7115
(406) 652-8473
(406) 232-6587
1555 HWY 93 South
71 North Meridian Rd.
2400 West Broadway
3841 Brooks
1012 Kensington St.
1926 South Ave.
3575 West Broadway
340 West Pine St.
500 North 1st St.
Kalispell, MT
Kalispell, MT
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Missoula, MT
Hamilton, MT
59901-5722
59901-3845
59808
59804
59801-5627
59801-6508
59808-5675
59802-4120
59840-2148
(406) 755-4660
(406) 257-4660
(406) 543-7181
(406) 543-8318
(406) 728-2010
(406) 728-0641
(406) 728-4331
(406) 543-8341
(406) 363-2995
15 4th St. North
521 10th Ave. South
4501 10th Ave. South
1627 3rd St. Northwest
205 West 1st St.
Glasgow, MT
Great Falls, MT
Great Falls, MT
Great Falls, MT
Havre, MT
59230-1858
59405-4093
59405-5630
59404-1915
59501-0650
(406) 228-2388
(406) 727-3450
(406) 453-2451
(406) 761-4200
(406) 265-4318
190 Andrea Dr.
1222 East Park St.
512 East Main
2999 West Main
1601 Cedar St.
Belgrade, MT
Livingston, MT
Bozeman, MT
Bozeman, MT
Helena, MT
59714-8942
59047-2836
59715-3766
59718-9011
59601-1107
(406) 388-0001
(406) 222-2823
(406) 587-0616
(406) 586-2208
(406) 443-2115
200 West Appleway Ave.
1900 E Schneidmiller Ave.
Coeur d’Alene, ID
Post Falls, ID
83814-9326
83854-4517
(208) 765-7777
(208) 777-7777
1918 Northwest Blvd.
7777 North Division St.
10917 West Sunset HWY
3510 North Sullivan Rd.
22117 East Country Vist Dr.
1821 North Hamilton St.
910 East Holland Ave.
11711 East Sprague Ave.
3030 East 29th Ave.
4504 North Division St.
6401 East Sprague Ave.
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA
Airway Heights, WA
Spokane Valley, WA
Liberty Lake, WA
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA
Spokane Valley, WA
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA
Spokane, WA
99205
99208-5615
99001-9719
99206-6110
99019-7566
99207-2582
99218-1282
99206-6110
99223-4814
99207-1512
99223-4814
(509) 327-7777
(509) 467-7777
(509) 570-7777
(509) 927-7778
(509) 922-7771
(509) 483-7777
(509) 466-7777
(509) 924-7777
(509) 532-7777
(509) 489-7777
(509) 523-7777
1892 Coffeen Ave.
805 L&J Court
800 West Yellowstone HWY
Sheridan, WY
Gillette, WY
Casper, WY
82801-5712
82718
82601
(307) 672-3471
(307) 685-4755
(307) 234-5301
Corporate Office
1401 Industrial Ave.
P.O. Box 23509
Billings, MT
59104-3509
1-800-828-1642
TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
Tire-Rama customers receive free tire inspections, free tire rotation, free air pressure
adjustments, free brake system inspections, free tire puncture repairs, free shock and
strut inspections, free rubber valve stems, free spare tire inspection, free balancing on
original purchase and free prorated adjustments on non-repairable tires.
Wherever you travel across a four-state region, there’s a Tire-Rama to serve you.
www.tirerama.com