Flat tires can happen to anyone at any time.
They can come from potholes, nails or something else puncturing your tire, and even blowing out because they are so worn out.
One way that you can keep you and your family safe while driving is by learning when to replace tires.
Continue reading to discover 5 of the most common signs that you need new tires.
How Do You Know When to Replace Tires?
Many people find out that they need to replace tires after it is already too late and they are pulled to the side of the road trying to put a spare tire on. Learning when to replace tires will help prevent roadside tire changes.
Below are 5 signs that you should be aware of to ensure that your tires are safe to drive on.
1. Perform the Penny Test
The penny test can help ensure that your tires are safe to drive by checking the tread. This test can be done with a quarter but is typically done with a penny (hence the name of the test)
In order to perform this, you put a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down in between the tire tracks. If you cannot see the top of his head then your tires are still okay to drive on. If you are able to see the top of Lincoln’s head it is time to start thinking about and buying new ones.
If you aren’t sure what tires you need you can check out all the brands and wheels by vehicle to figure out what your car needs.
2. You See Cracks and Bulges
There are many factors that can wear down your tires. Natural aging, ice, and rain can damage your tires over time. When this happens, your tire is likely to blowout, which can cause an accident.
You can identify the damaged and weakened spots on your tires by checking for any spots extending off the tire’s surface. It is dangerous to drive on a tire with these conditions so be sure to get a new one if you see any bulges.
3. Living in Areas with Extreme Weather
Just simply living in an area that gets snow every year is a sign that you may need to get new tires. The freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and salt all contribute to wearing down your tires’ treads.
If you are living in an area that is constantly hot, the sun and temperature could also be wearing down your tires. Air pressure increases as the temperature rises, this can then cause your tires to pop.
4. Your Car Is Shaking a Lot
Tires are one of the most common causes of car vibrations. Don’t get concerned about this one if you are driving on a dirt road or bumpy highway. When you are on a nice smooth road and your car is still shaking, that’s when it becomes a warning sign.
The vibrations can come from poor tire alignment, balance issues, or even interior problems with the tire.
5. Bald Tires
This is an easy test to identify if your tires are unsafe. If you cannot see any tread on your tires and they look bald, you need to buy new ones.
Bald tires can lead to problems such as sliding while try to use brakes and sliding all over the road when it is wet outside. Without any traction, you can put your life at risk while driving with tires in this condition.
Don’t Tread Again
It’s never worth it when you test the life of your car’s tires. It is important to understand when to replace tires so that you do not put your life, or anyone else, in danger.
Be sure to keep an eye on your tires for any of these signs so that you can ensure safety. You will feel much more comfortable at the wheel knowing your tires are in good shape.
Check out some tire kits that you can get if your car isn’t in the best shape.
