Your tires are essential for your car’s performance and safety, but they are often taken for granted until there is a problem. Most drivers would only think of replacing tires when they are flat or balding, but did you know that there are other signs that indicate the need for new tires? As your trusted auto care center in Kamloops, BC, Advanced Auto Service is here to help you identify these signs to keep you safe on the road.
1. Tread Wear Indicator Bars Are Visible
The easiest way to check your tire’s tread depth is to look for the built-in tread wear indicator bars. These are narrow strips of rubber within the groove of the tire that indicate how much tread is remaining. If you can see these bars on any portion of the tread, it means that your tires are worn out, and you need to get new ones. Remember, the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s recommended to replace them when the tread depth is at 3.0mm or less.
2. Uneven Tread Wear
If your tires are wearing unevenly, it’s a sign of a problem with your car’s alignment. Uneven wear can occur on the inside or outside edges, the center, or one side of the tire. It could be due to a misaligned suspension, unbalanced wheels, or worn-out shocks. If you notice your tires wearing unevenly, have them checked by a professional auto technician at our auto care center.
3. Bulges, Blisters, or Cracks on the Sidewall
The sidewall of the tire is where you’ll find important information like the tire size, speed rating, load index, etc. It’s also prone to damage from sharp objects, potholes, or curb scrapes. If you see any bulges, blisters, or cracks that penetrate the inner tire plies or cords, it’s time to replace the tires regardless of their age or mileage. These signs indicate structural damage that could lead to a sudden blowout while driving.
4. Vibration or Thumping
If you feel a constant vibration or thumping while driving, it’s likely that your tires are out of balance. This occurs when one part of the tire is heavier than the rest, causing it to vibrate at high speeds. Unless corrected, an imbalanced tire can cause uneven tire wear, suspension problems, or premature tire failure. It’s essential to have your tires balanced and aligned regularly at our auto care center.
5. Aging Tires
Even if your tires have enough tread depth, they could still be a safety hazard if they are too old. Tires are made of rubber compounds that deteriorate over time, even if they are not being used. If your tires are over six years old, they could be prone to cracking, leakage, and tire failure. It’s best to replace them even if they look brand new.
Your tires could be the most crucial safety feature of your vehicle. As such, it’s essential to know when to replace them before they become a danger on the road. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, come to us at Advanced Auto Service in Kamloops, BC, for tire repairs or sales. Our auto technicians will inspect your tires and provide you with honest advice and reliable services. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
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From the team at Advance Auto Service in Kamloops
