How To Tell It Is Time for New Tires

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New Tires

What is a car without tires? A stationary pile of metal and plastic. Cars are supposed to take you from one point to another, which they cannot do without tires. You should not take your tires to the limit either. Driving on old, worn, or damaged tires can be dangerous. 

Unfortunately, tires and wheels can be expensive to repair or replace, so people often push them to unsafe levels. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate these expenses, so you do not have to choose between safely operating your vehicle and risking your life. Applying for and using tire payment plans makes it possible to spread the cost out over time rather than having to pay it all upfront. 

Now that you know you have affordable tire purchasing options, you should learn when to buy them. There are many tips, tricks, and signs that say when to repair or replace your tires. Below are four factors that may indicate it is time for new tires.

1. Dashboard Notifications

When your car speaks, you should listen. Your dashboard tells you that you need new tires in a couple of ways; number one, the odometer. Tires are not meant to travel unlimited miles. Always follow your tire manufacturer’s guidelines for how many miles you can safely drive and replace them before reaching the recommended maximum mileage. Tire pressure gauges can also signify poor or damaged tires. If your tire pressure is consistently low, you may need to get them repaired or buy new tires altogether.

2. Age

Regardless of how many miles they have traveled, tires still have an expiration date. Most tires last 6-10 years, depending on their use and the vehicle attached to them. Again, you should follow the specific recommendations of your tire and vehicle manufacturers. It can be especially hazardous to drive long distances or at higher speeds on tires close to their end date.

3. Appearance

One of the easiest ways to tell that you need new tires is by looking at them. Tires that appear dry and cracked or tires that develop bubbles in the wall demonstrate the need to head to the tire store. Tires with shallow or uneven tread may also mean it is time to look for new ones. Finally, if someone says that your tires look bald, it is probably time for replacements. Bald tires are tires that have virtually no visible tread left. Usually, they cannot create enough traction to keep your vehicle securely on the road.

4. Weather

Balding tires are particularly dangerous during wet weather. If you live in a location that gets a lot of precipitation, you must pay close attention to your tire tread depths. Try to keep them at the reasonable level dictated by your tire manufacturer. You may also consider investing in special snow tires during the winter season. These tires are specially designed to maintain superior traction in the snow and ice.

Keeping your tires in good working condition can help keep you safe on the road. Use the above indicators to figure out when you need tire repairs or replacements. Ditch any old, worn, or damaged tires right away so you do not end up in a ditch yourself.