New tires. Tire repairs. Wheel alignments. Headaches and hassles that come with owning a car, or simple maintenance you can plan for if you take the time to get to know your tires? We like to think it’s the latter. If you know when you’re going to need new tires, you can take the time to choose the right tires for your vehicle and get them installed when it’s convenient for you. Same for a wheel alignment—knowing when and under what circumstances you need a wheel alignment gives you the confidence to invest in one. As for a tire repair, being able to trust your auto repair shop is crucial for determining when a tire repair is a viable option. Read on for more tire tips.
How to Tell If It’s Time for New Tires
The first thing to consider when you’re wondering if it’s time for new tires is tire tread depth. The tread on your tires should never fall below 1.6 millimeters in depth. While you can buy a tire gauge to measure tread depth (like you’ll see at a tire shop), there’s a simple method that’ll give you a general idea if you need new tires—and it won’t cost you a penny. In fact, it is a penny. Insert Lincoln’s head (head-down) into the tread. If Lincoln’s entire head remains visible, you don’t have enough tread, and you need new tires. Also check for cracks in the tire sidewall, bulges and/or blisters on your tires, and, if your car is vibrating a lot, you may need new tires or a wheel alignment (see below).
Out of Your Control
Despite the amount of attention you give your tires, there are still outside forces that will take a toll on your tire’s condition. If you consistently drive in crude weather conditions or you’ve had your tires for many years now, the elasticity loses shape and crack start forming along the surface. Remember, if the cracks are light then you don’t have anything to worry about. Now if you notice a lot of splintering on your tire, you should act fast in taking your tires to get looked at by a professional sooner rather than later.
Our Auto Repair Shop Can Help with New Tires, Tire Repair & Wheel Alignment
If you have questions about new tires, tire repair, or whether you need a wheel alignment, please call our auto repair shop. Our tire techs are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to making new tire recommendations and handling tire repairs. For wheel alignments, we use state-of-the-art equipment and strictly adhere to your vehicle manufacturer’s alignment specifications. You can trust us to do right by you and your tires.