When time and funds are in short supply, it is sometimes tempting to put off routine auto maintenance until it's more convenient. However, your car tires are the only thing connecting your vehicle to the road, so it is vital to get a new set if your current one is worn down. Hudson Tire & Battery, the premier tire sales and auto repair shop in Harrison, AR, explains how tires work and why bald tires are dangerous.

How Tires Work

A new tire features hundreds of narrow grooves that allow water to flow away so the rubber can maintain contact with the road. The parts of the tire that maintain contact are called treads, and these wear down over time until the grooves can no longer channel enough water away from the tire. This type of tire is known as "bald."

Why Bald Tires Are Dangerous

Water trapped beneath a bald tire has nowhere to escape, and it prevents the treads from gripping the pavement. This can lead to hydroplaning, wherein the tire simply glides across the surface of the water like a water ski. When a car tire hydroplanes, the driver has no control over steering or braking; it is similar to sliding on ice, and it is extraordinarily dangerous. Moreover, because the treads have worn thin, the tires are more vulnerable to punctures and failure, even on dry roads.

How to Tell if You Need New Tires

Follow this simple rule of thumb to determine if your tires are worn enough to require replacement: stick a U.S. penny into one of the grooves between your tire treads. If the top of Abraham Lincoln’s head is visible, it is time to replace the tire.

When your car tires are worn down, Hudson Tire & Battery can help you choose an affordable, high-quality set that help you arrive safely at your destination. Contact them via their website or call (870) 741-2740 to discuss your tire, battery, or brake repair needs with a friendly professional.