The biggest engine, smoothest transmission, and most technologically-advanced components under the hood of your car mean very little if your tires are bad. If you neglect to replace them, they might fail and leave you and your family stranded. Furthermore, when your treads become severely worn, they present a safety risk. Road debris, such as rocks and other sharp objects, can puncture the treads and sidewalls, and cause a blowout. If you\’re moving at high speeds when it occurs, you can potentially lose control of your vehicle.

It is critical that you inspect your tires on a regular basis to look for signs that they need to be replaced. Below, we\’ll highlight some of the problems to look for. We\’ll also discuss important issues regarding the type of replacements to buy for your car.

Identifying The Need For New Tires

The condition of your treads is integral to your safety as well as that of your passengers. As they wear down, steering response and traction diminish. This is the reason it is important to examine your tires every three or four weeks.

You can determine tread depth with a penny. Simply insert the penny with Lincoln\’s head upside-down into the grooves. If the top of Lincoln\’s head disappears into the grooves, your treads are fine. If it remains even with the tire\’s surface, the depth of the grooves is 2/32\”. At that point, they should be replaced.

If you typically drive in wet conditions, the depth of your treads is even more important. Consider replacing them when they reach 4/32\”. You can identify this depth by inserting a quarter (with Washington\’s head upside-down) into the grooves.

While inspecting your tires, look for indications of damage. Pay close attention to the sidewalls and the treads along the shoulder.

When You Need To Replace One, Two, Or The Entire Set

It\’s not always necessary to buy a complete set of replacements. A single tire may have suffered damage from a nail, been vandalized, or developed severe wear due to an alignment problem. In such cases, assuming the rest of the set remain in good condition, you should purchase a tire that closely matches the others. It should be the same size, come from the same manufacturer, and have the same speed and load ratings.

The same guidelines should be followed when replacing two tires, but less priority can be given to buying them from the same manufacturer. As long as they are the same size, and offer identical speed and load ratings as the remaining two tires, they are fine. It\’s important to note, however, that the new pair should be installed in the rear.

If you need to replace the entire set, you\’ll have more flexibility. You can purchase tires that offer a smoother ride, longer life, better steering response, or a higher load rating.

Buying Tires To Fit Your Driving Conditions

Driving conditions clearly vary. Some areas receive substantial rain and snow, keeping the roads wet and slippery for a significant part of the year. Other areas receive little of each, and as a result, the roads remain dry. When purchasing new tires, think about the conditions in which you do most of your driving. Also, consider the type of driving you do.

For example, do you use your car mostly for short trips to the grocery store, coffee shop, and other places near your home? If so, nearly any type of tire will suffice. Do you drive long distances on freeways to and from your workplace? You\’ll need treads that offer longer tread life and better steering response. If your area receives a lot of rainfall, consider buying winter tires that offer better traction. If you drive on roads covered with snow or ice, invest in a set of treads designed to burrow into both (again, for better traction).

When your tires reach the point at which they need to be replaced, make sure to buy a set that meets your needs. Resist the temptation to purchase the least expensive set since doing so may introduce problems down the road.

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Category: Automotive
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