What aspect of vehicle maintenance is critical to avoid accidents?

Regular tire pressure checks are critical for vehicle maintenance to avoid accidents because properly inflated tires ensure optimal contact with the road. This contributes to better handling, improved braking performance, and lower risk of tire blowouts, all of which play significant roles in maintaining control of the vehicle.

When tire pressure is too low or too high, it can lead to uneven tire wear and affect the vehicle's stability, especially during turns or sudden maneuvers. Drivers are more likely to lose traction in adverse conditions, increasing the probability of an accident. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, as outlined in the vehicle's manual, helps maximize safety and performance.

While other maintenance aspects such as keeping the gas tank full, frequent oil changes, and washing the exterior have their own importance, they do not directly impact the vehicle's ability to maintain traction and stability on the road as significantly as tire pressure does.