Worn-out tires are responsible for thousands of auto accidents every year. Driving with your car in this dangerous state can put you and others at risk for serious injury. However, that doesn’t have to be you if you pay attention to what your tires are trying to tell you.
There are several signs to look for when considering tire repair or replacement. Read on to find five signs of worn-out tires.
1. Constantly Low Air Pressure
Some variation in tire pressure can be expected with changing temperatures. But, if you find that there has not been a dramatic change in the weather or that you can’t keep the tire pressure in check it may be a sign. You could potentially have a small leak somewhere in the tire.
Taking a quick visit to the tire shop like https://www.allcoasttyres.com.au/tyres/car-tyres/ can point you in the right direction. Patching might be possible or you may need to replace it.
2. Low Tire Tread
Tires are worn down over time and use. The natural rubber can’t withstand overuse and the tread will gradually dull. In the United States, you can try the penny test.
Take a penny in the grooves of your tire with President Lincoln’s head pointing downwards. If you can still see the top of his head, then your tires are too worn down for safe driving. The actual safe measurement is 0.79 cm.
3. Vibration or Odd Noises
Any strange noises or vibrations when driving on a smooth road can be an indication of a variety of problems. Vibrations can be a sign that your tires are out-of-balance, out-of-round, or are unevenly worn. It may also mean that the inner chords of the tire have shifted or separated.
Any tire experiencing these issues needs to be replaced. These noises or feelings could be another issue that doesn’t have to do with your tires. Regardless, this needs to be assessed by a mechanic.
4. Age
When are tires worn-out? Tires actually have a calculated life span. Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your tires every 6 years.
If you don’t know how old your tires are you can have a mechanic check it out. There is a Department of Transportation code stamped into the rubber that will indicate the date they were made. The last four digits of this code represent the date. The first two numbers are the week and the last two numbers are the year.
5. Weathering
Depending on where you live or drive, weathering may not be much of a concern. In climates that experience dramatic temperatures or weather conditions, this is something that you should be aware of.
Rubber is affected by ultraviolet rays, snow, ice, rain, intense heat, and other severe weather conditions. Fine cracks are the most common indication of weathering.
Time to Replace Your Worn-out Tires
If your tires are showing any of these signs, then it is time to repair or replace them. Worn-out tires are a hazard for yourself and others on the road. Be sure to have them check out if you have any concerns but aren’t sure.
Did you find this article helpful? Check out our other great content!