Cars are built to last. Many people happily drive their vehicles for decades. Unfortunately, tires get a lot of use, so they wear out much faster. Rotating your tires on schedule can help them last longer, but there will still come a time when you need to replace your old tires with new ones. Here are three signs that your tires need to be replaced:
1. Your tire treads are worn down.
The grooves on your tires are called treads. They may look nice, but their purpose is very practical. Treads allow water space to flow, which means your tire can more easily make contact with the road. The friction provided by your tire's treads keeps you safe when you drive in the snow or rain. If your tire treads have worn down and become shallow, your tires may not have the friction necessary for a safe driving experience. When you notice that your tire treads are faint and harder to see, you should plan to purchase new tires.
2. Your tires are showing signs of physical damage.
Extreme temperatures can have a negative impact on tires. Tires that have begun to degrade due to environmental factors may look discolored. You may even be able to see hairline cracks in their surface. Tires that are damaged are more likely to be punctured on the road, which could lead to a flat tire or a dangerous blowout. Make sure to inspect your tires regularly. Look for nails or any other foreign object embedded in your tires. Change your tires at the first sign of physical damage in order to avoid costly collisions.
3. Your tires are old.
The age of your tires matters as much as their physical condition. As rubber ages, it can grow brittle, which makes it more susceptible to cracks. If your tires are more than six years old, according to Edmunds, you should consider replacing them. If you're on a budget, you may wait longer if the tires still appear to be in good condition. However, you shouldn't use the same tires for any longer than ten years.
When you're in the market for new tires, visit a tire dealer with a good reputation. Buying your tires from a quality shop ensures you will get tires that are still covered by a warranty. Recently manufactured tires are more likely to be in good condition, and they will last you longer too.