One of the most important parts of an automobile is its tires. Despite this fact, many drivers do not know the proper way of maintaining their wheels, which can eventually lead to dangerous situations and inefficient vehicles. 

The Rubber Manufacturers Association recently conducted a survey to see how drivers care for their car tires. It found that the vast majority of motorists are unaware of the best practices for maintaining tires, with only one in six people being considered "tire smart" and knowing enough to check tire pressure on a monthly basis. 

When it comes to being tire smart, factors such as age and gender tend to play a role in knowledge levels. Only about 20 percent of men and 14 percent of women know what they should be doing to care for tires. Younger drivers, in particular, lack the knowledge needed to properly maintain tires – only 8 percent of people ages 18 to 39 know how to check tire pressure and carry out a few other basic maintenance practices. 

While drivers can certainly keep an eye on tire maintenance themselves, occasionally it is best to get a professional to look at the automobile. 

"Have [a service center] check tire condition and pressure, look over the cooling system and go through their checklist," Pam Oakes, a car care expert, told The Chicago Tribune. "Having a professional set of eyes looking at your car will provide an idea of repairs you may or may not need going into spring and summer." 

Drivers who want to have an expert examine their vehicle can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction and its Total Car Care Center. The facility can provide a car tune up and check the quality of your tires, making sure your car is safe and capable of handling anything on the roads.