Tires are vital to ensuring safe handling and reliable performance as you drive through Fairview Heights, IL. They affect your car’s handling, braking, fuel efficiency, and overall performance. However, it’s not always clear when the right time is to replace them. While some people wait until their tires are completely bald, that’s a risky approach that could lead to reduced traction, blowouts, or accidents. Here’s how to know when it’s time for a fresh set of tires.
Tread Depth is Too Low
One of the simplest ways to tell if your tires need replacing is by checking the tread depth. By law, tires must have at least 2/32 of an inch of tread depth, but for better traction—especially in rainy conditions—it’s wise to replace them around 4/32″. A straightforward way to check tread depth is with the “penny test”—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing downward. If his head is fully visible, your tread is too low and it’s time to replace the tires.
Cracks, Bulges, or Sidewall Damage
Even if your tread looks decent, visible signs of damage on the sidewalls shouldn’t be ignored. Cracks, gouges, or bulges may indicate that the internal structure of the tire is compromised. Bulging spots, in particular, are signs of weakened sidewalls and can lead to blowouts. If you spot anything unusual during a visual inspection, it’s best to have a professional take a look right away.
Uneven Wear Patterns
Have you noticed your tires wearing out more quickly on one side than the other? This could be a sign of poor alignment, worn suspension components, or improper inflation. Uneven wear not only shortens the lifespan of your tires but also affects the handling of your vehicle in Fairview Heights, IL. If caught early, realignment might fix the issue, but you’ll still need to replace tires that have worn down significantly.
Age of the Tires
Even if your car spends more time parked than on the road, tires naturally break down over time from exposure to sunlight, ozone, and changing temperatures. Most tire manufacturers advise replacing your tires every 6 to 10 years, even if the tread appears to be in good shape. You can check the tire’s manufacturing date by looking at the last four digits of the DOT code on the sidewall—this number tells you the week and year the tire was made.
Frequent Loss of Air Pressure
If you’re constantly topping off your tires, it could be a sign of a slow leak, damaged valve stem, or worn-out rubber. While a single nail or puncture may be repairable, chronic air loss often indicates that a replacement is needed. Driving with underinflated tires can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, less responsive handling, and accelerated tire wear.
Your Ride Feels Off
If your vehicle vibrates more than usual, pulls to one side, or just doesn’t feel right while driving, your tires might be to blame. Excessive vibration could be due to internal tire damage or imbalances, while pulling can stem from uneven wear or alignment issues. Tires combined with a proper alignment and balance—can restore a smooth, safe ride.
Looking for new tires around the Fairview Heights, IL area? Visit Rowan Tire & Auto Service.
