Not sure how to tell if your tires need to be replaced?
Tires are one of the most important parts of your car, but it is hard to tell if they need to be replaced or not before you get into an accident.
Most people don’t know how to tell when their tires are worn out and that can lead them into trouble. The last thing you want is a blowout on the highway.
Keep reading because this car tire replacement guide gives you tips and tricks for telling which tires have too much wear on them and what kind of tire replacements will work best for your needs.
1. Reading the Tread
Tires are made of many layers including steel belts, polyester cords, rubber treads, and rubber sidewalls. The thickness of these tires will determine, in part, how long you can drive on them safely.
If one or more layers are worn away it could spell trouble for your tires. Use the penny test to check the treads of your tires at home for wear and tear.
You should be able to see all of Abe Lincoln’s head when you insert a penny lengthwise into the grooves of your tire treads.
2 . Checking Tire Pressure
One quick way to tell if your tires are wearing faster than normal is to check the tire pressure. The correct PSI should be written on the inside of your car door or in the glove compartment.
If you notice that it is below this recommended level, fill up your tires with air at a nearby gas station or visit an automotive service center.
3 . Tires That Are Not Aligned Properly
If you feel bumps every time you drive after hitting a bump, then you may need to realign your tires. This can usually be done at a nearby service center for a small fee.
4 . Bald Spots
If you have bald spots on your tires, it is definitely time for a new set! Driving on bald spots will damage the tire beyond repair and can be very dangerous.
5 . Age
The general rule of thumb is that you should replace your tires every 6 years, whether they are showing signs of wear or not. This is because over time the rubber will deteriorate and lose its elasticity which will affect its ability to grip the road while driving.
6 . Cracks in Tires
If you see any cracks in your tire sidewalls, it is time to replace them. These cracks can quickly spread and become larger, making it unsafe to drive on your tires.
7 . Rusty Lug Nuts
If you have rusty lug nuts, it is time for a new set of car tires! Rusty lug nuts can cause your wheel to wobble while driving, making it very dangerous.
8 . Uneven Wear
If you are seeing uneven wear on your tires, it could be a sign that they need to be replaced. This could be due to a number of different reasons such as poor alignment or low air pressure.
How to Tell if Your Tires Need to Be Replaced
We hope you have enjoyed these care tire replacement tips and now have a better idea of how to tell if your tires need to be replaced. It’s a good idea to check your tires periodically, as they may need replacing if the tread is worn.
This can help you avoid getting into a vehicle accident or bursting a tire while dropping the kids to school. If you want help with this process or any other automotive needs, contact us today for more information on our services and products!