Tires wear out after a while, no matter how carefully you try to drive. If you get your maintenance done by certified mechanics or get a car inspection done when purchasing a used vehicle, they probably check your tires for wear as part of their routine. Having good tires keeps you safe on the road, as you will have better traction and be less likely to have an unexpected blowout. You can even get a ticket for operating a vehicle with unsafe tires. Here are 5 signs that indicate you need new tires.
1. Tread
Many people use a simple trick to see if their tires have become so worn they are no longer safe. All you need to do is stick a penny head first into several different tread grooves in each of your tires. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, the treads are too shallow. You could end up having an accident in bad weather because your tires are unsafe.
2. Age
While it may seem arbitrary compared to a factor you can see, like tread wear, the age of your tires could mean they have met the end of their use. The manufacturer often has a warranty that goes with the age a tire can achieve while offering optimal performance. Many vehicle manufacturers recommend changing tires as often as every six years after their manufacturing date, while some tires can last as long as ten years after this date.
3. Defects in the Sidewall
Some defects on the sidewall are merely cosmetic and will cause no danger if ignored. Because they are in such a vulnerable part of the tire, sidewalls often get marks or defects from wear on city streets. However, if there is a bulging area or areas on the sidewall, there could be a bad fit or an impact could have caused serious damage to your tire. You should get it checked out, and you may need a new tire.
4. Weak Spots, Bulges, and Blisters
When you see these kinds of defects on the outside surface of your tire, it means that area is becoming weak. You won’t be able to repair or patch it because it shows a structural weakness, and this kind of defect is particularly dangerous because it can lead to blowouts while driving.
5. Vibration While Driving
If your car is vibrating while you’re driving, it could be because of several different issues. First, make sure you notice it on different roads because rough pavement may be something you need to avoid. Your steering could cause your car to shake if it’s out of alignment, and issues with the body could cause a vibration. The car might also be shaking because at least one of your tires is defective and needs to be replaced.
Make sure to get an auto inspection if you’re considering buying a used vehicle. Contact Lemon Squad at 1-888-231-7965, or check our website to see the different types of inspections we offer.