New tires may not be the most exciting things to shop for. They also might not be something you want to spend your hard earned money on right now. However, if you need new tires, it could become a safety issue if you procrastinate in buying them. So, exactly how do you know if you need new tires? We’re glad you asked. There are several factors to look at before you decide for sure.
You might need new tires if …
- Your current tires show signs of weathering.
Tires are made of rubber and they’re not made to last forever. When they’re consistently exposed to the elements, they will break down over time. This can happen even more quickly in places like Arizona because we often experience extreme summer time temperatures. No matter where you live, inspect your tires for signs of weathering – you may see cracks in the sidewall or inside the tread. If left too long, these cracks will get bigger and eventually reveal the inside of the tire. It’s best to replace your tires before this happens.
- Your tires have bulges in them.
If you notice bumps or bulges anywhere on your tires, don’t ignore them. They may have shown up after hitting a curb, pot hole, or other object, but when left alone, they can rupture. If that happens while you’re driving, you may be stranded with a blown out tire and even have more serious injury or damage.
- You feel vibrations while driving.
When this happens, you don’t necessarily need new tires, but it’s helpful to schedule an appointment with your mechanic to have them inspected. The cause could be something as simple as your tires being out of balance, which can be fixed at your auto repair shop. If the problem is more serious, however, your mechanic may recommend full tire replacement.
- The tread depth is no longer sufficient.
Your tires’ tread depth is important for driving safety and for keeping your vehicle’s tires in contact with the road. As the tread depth approaches 2/32”, it’s time to look for new tires.
- Your tires are old.
Even if your tires look and feel fine, their age could be reason enough to replace them. The date stamped on the sidewall will let you know when they were manufactured. If their age is more than 5-6 years, even if YOU have had them for less, you should consider getting new tires.
Let the experts help you decide
Buying new tires is certainly an investment, but it’s well worth it if it helps your vehicle’s performance and allows you to drive and ride safely. At Good Works Auto Repair, we offer a variety of tire services, including tire sales, mounting and balancing, rotations, and repairs. Schedule an appointment for tire service today and keep on rolling!
