Whether you’ve had a flat, run over a nail, or experienced another tire issue, you might be wondering if it’s time for a replacement or just a repair. And what about wheel alignments? You’ve seen the ads and heard the commercials, but when are they truly necessary? That’s where we come in—we can guide you in the right direction and provide honest advice for tire care.
Simple Tire Check – The Penny Test
Modern tires sold in the U.S. feature “tread wear bars,” which are small raised rubber indicators within the grooves of your tires. When these bars become level with the tread, it’s a clear sign that it’s time for new tires. Another quick and easy way to assess tire wear is the penny test. Insert a penny into one of the grooves with Lincoln’s head facing downward. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to visit a tire shop for replacements. While inspecting your tires, be sure to check multiple spots for any uneven tread wear, as this could indicate the need for a wheel alignment in addition to new tires.
Five Signs It’s Time to Get New Tires
- Bulges, Gouges, or Cracks:If you notice your tire bulging at the sides, it could indicate low tire pressure or a slow air leak. Cracks, gouges, or any other unusual signs on the sidewall are also red flags. If you spot these, it’s time to have your tires inspected by a professional.
- Tread Wear:Many modern tires also come with wear bars—strips of rubber embedded in the tread pattern at a specific depth. If your tread has worn down to these bars, it’s time for new tires.
- Tire Pressure:Tires naturally lose about one pound per square inch (PSI) of pressure each month. While this slow deflation won’t wear your tires out immediately, it’s important to regularly check that they are properly inflated.
- Temperature Changes:Extreme temperatures can affect tire pressure. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, while summer heat can lead to excessive heat buildup in underinflated tires, causing them to wear out faster. Before hitting the road, ensure your tires are properly inflated to handle the temperature changes.
- Vibration:Unusual vibrations or thumping while driving could signal tire issues. If the vibration seems to come from under the seats, it might indicate that the rear tires are out of balance. Vibration in the steering wheel could point to suspension problems. Any ride that feels less than smooth warrants a trip to your dealer for inspection.
When to Replace All Four Tires & Types of Tires
When to Replace All Four Tires & Types of TiresIt’s advisable to replace all four tires simultaneously since they play a crucial role in your vehicle’s performance and handling. Having tires that are as similar as possible is essential; mismatched tires can cause one end of your vehicle to respond more slowly than the other, leading to control difficulties. Since your tires are what maintain contact with the road, having a uniform surface is critical for safe driving.
For us Coloradoans, having great tires for all seasons is crucial for the safety of you, and your vehicle. Tires with good traction, handling, and safety are very important to consider when purchasing new tires, especially since we live in a state with weather that is consistently changing. All-weather tires can be a smarter purchase for Colorado drivers. These tires are designed to perform safely in winter conditions, such as wet snow, slush, and heavy rain. They feature tread patterns that provide enhanced traction and stability, along with a rubber compound that remains flexible across a range of temperatures.
How a Wheel Alignment Can Extend the Life of Your New Tires
Even with regular care, your tires are subject to outside forces that can affect their condition over time. Driving in harsh weather or simply the passage of years can cause the rubber to lose its elasticity, leading to cracks on the surface. Light cracking is generally not a cause for concern, but if you notice significant splintering, it’s important to have your tires inspected by a professional as soon as possible. A proper wheel alignment can help prevent premature wear and extend the lifespan of your tires, ensuring safer and more efficient driving.
No matter how much time and care you invest in your tires, certain factors beyond your control can still affect their condition. Getting your tires checked can help prevent more serious issues and ensure your safety on the road. If you ever have any questions or concerns about your vehicle’s tires, reach out to us, and we will be happy to help you!