Very few people get excited by the idea of buying a new set of tires. However, it’s a necessity that everyone (and their wallets) must face eventually. Don’t assume that yours are still road-ready if you’re unsure of what to look for. That puts you and other drivers in danger. Instead, check out these five signs that your car tires need to be changed.
The Penny Trick
Keeping an eye on your tire’s tread is essential to ensuring your ride stays safe. When it falls below one-sixth of an inch, the tire is officially in the danger zone. You can measure this by simply placing a penny down into the tread.
Place the penny with Lincoln’s head facing down toward the wheel. If his head is visible, then an immediate change is essential. If not, you still have a little time before forking over the cash for fresh rubber. However, it’s dangerous to wait too long when his head begins to show.
Visible Wires
Underneath your tire’s black exterior rests a series of cord-like wires that make up the inner liner. When these become visible, the tire is likely to blow out while driving. Both uneven wear and improper alignment can cause this to happen.
A Noticeable Vibration
When the road you’re driving on isn’t causing a vibrating feeling, then your tires are to blame. This could mean they are off balance, wearing unevenly, or have developed an air pocket. As the problem progresses, the vibration will become worse until your tire fails altogether.
Keep in mind that off balance and improperly aligned tires are not always the driver’s fault. There are cases where repair or tire shops have failed to do their job, leading to an accident. You can determine if this was the cause with experienced legal representation like Easton & Easton, personal injury attorneys in Costa Mesa.
Cracks and Dry Rot
Even if you rarely drive your vehicle, tires do not last forever. Those exposed to sunlight and various weather conditions will eventually age, leading to cracking in the rubber or dry rot. Both can cause your tire to fail to hold air, which becomes increasingly dangerous over time and at higher speeds.
Poor Handling
No one knows how it feels to drive your vehicle better than you do. If you start noticing a difference in the way it handles, then it’s a good idea to have your car checked out. While your tires may not be the culprit, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Signs of poor handling caused by tires include:
- Unusual vibrations
- The car pulling to the left or right
- Hydroplaning becoming frequent
- Taking longer to stop
- Slipping tires when you hit the gas
- Not being able to take a corner as fast
Don’t Wait
All five of these signs mean it’s time to get new tires as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely you are to get in an accident. While no one likes the cost of a new set of tires, it’s better than the cost of a crash and an increased insurance premium.
