Honestly, knowing the exact time of when you need new tires or trying to figure out a distinct time frame for how long your tires last is far-fetched. However, there are many indications to be aware of that prompt you to get new tires.
Quite simply, as a tire continues to take on more mileage it gradually begins to get more unsafe. The primary purpose of tread is to divert water from under the tire, to increase traction and to deter hydroplaning on slick roads. As tire tread adds on mileage, its reliability decreases. Tires become entirely dangerous when they’re worn down to 1⁄16th of an inch. However, it is recommended you don't wait until that point to get new tires, especially when driving in adverse weather conditions.
There are numerous elements that factor into the longevity and mileage of a tire, subject to:
- The climate
- It’s design
- Driving habits
- How you treat your tires
- The road’s environment
How to Tell If It’s Time for New Tires
Did you know you can determine the condition of your tires for as low as one cent? Most commonly known as the penny test, you can test your tire’s tread by inserting your penny into various grooves along the tread. If the top of Lincoln’s head is showing when you put the penny in, that means that tread is low and your tires are unsafe. At this point you’ll want to seriously consider replacing your tires. On the other hand, if you can’t see Lincoln’s head, that means you have about 2/32 of an inch remaining before you need to think about getting new tires.
The Penny Experiment
Some drivers are under the misconception that tire wear can cause misaligned wheels. But in fact, it’s quite the opposite—a car that’s out of alignment will cause uneven tire wear, which is why it’s so important to get a wheel alignment once or twice a year. If you’re getting new tires and it’s been a while since your last wheel alignment, the mounting of new tires can be an excellent opportunity to address alignment. Every vehicle has recommended wheel alignment specifications. These can—and should—be referenced when your new tires are installed to ensure your car is in alignment, and you’re going to get the most from your new tires—in years and performance.
Time for New Tires? Call Us Today!
Equally as important as the condition of your tires, is making sure your tire alignment is correct. Good tire alignment helps your tires in optimizing their performance and allows them to last longer. Tire alignment also decreases the pulling of your vehicle in one direction while driving and gives the driver a better sense of control over the vehicle as a whole. If you haven’t gotten your tires aligned in a while, come in today so we can take care of that for you.