When Do I Need New Tires?

There are numerous indicators to look out for that will cause you to buy new tires for your vehicle. However, attempting to figure out the precise time span for how long your tires last is nearly impossible.

There are numerous elements that factor into the longevity and mileage of a tire, subject to:

• Weather forecast

• Tire’s model type

• Driving routine

• How driver handles tires

• Road’s habitat

What we do know is, that the more beating a tire takes on, the more likelihood that it is unsafe to drive. A tire tread’s initial design is to reroute water from beneath the tire, which leads to improvements in traction on the road and less hydroplaning when the ground is wet. The more worn that the tire gets, the more undependable it gets. Once the tire shallows down to 1/16th of an inch, it is considered totally unsafe. Professionals, however, suggest that you don’t wait until your tires get to that point to get new tires because your safety will be in jeopardy in bad weather conditions. 

Tire Alignment

There are several obvious signs you need new tires. For example, if your tires are balled, your tire sidewalls have cracks or gouges, or you have cords showing through the rubber on your tires, you need new tires, no doubt about it, because your tires are unsafe for driving and will ultimately result in tire failure. Rather than wait until your tires are dangerously worn out, it’s better to get new tires as soon as they hit 2/32 inches, which you can test with a penny. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head above your tire tread (with his head facing down), your tread is below the 2/32” mark, and you need new tires.

Other Components

Some drivers are under the misconception that tire wear can cause misaligned wheels. But in fact, it’s quite the opposite—a car that’s out of alignment will cause uneven tire wear, which is why it’s so important to get a wheel alignment once or twice a year. If you’re getting new tires and it’s been a while since your last wheel alignment, the mounting of new tires can be an excellent opportunity to address alignment. Every vehicle has recommended wheel alignment specifications. These can—and should—be referenced when your new tires are installed to ensure your car is in alignment, and you’re going to get the most from your new tires—in years and performance.

Time for New Tires? Call Us Today!

Just as the condition of your tires are important, so is your tire alignment and should be examined when examining the tires as well. Proper alignment is supplemental to your tires by helping them perform substantially and increase their lifetime. Furthermore, it enhances handling and prevents your car from pulling in one direction or wobbling strangely on the road. If you think that you are in need of a tire alignment, take your vehicle in to get inspected immediately.