Your tires are a vital part of your safety while on the road, so it’s important to ensure they are always in top shape. If you’re not vigilant about your vehicle tire maintenance, it can end up leading to a dangerous situation on the road, like a blowout or flat tire. Luckily, there are several signs auto shops look out for to check whether or not a tire needs replacement. Read on for the top four to maintain your status as a responsible car owner.

4 Signs You Should Replace Your Tires

1. Low Tread

Most mechanics recommend not to let your tire tread depth fall below 1/16 of an inch. This is particularly important if you often drive on slick roads where traction can be a life or death situation. While you should have your tires checked by a mechanic periodically, you can keep an eye on your tread depth in between visits with the simple penny test. Insert a penny (Lincoln-head facing down) into the tread. If you can see Abe’s entire head, it’s time for a tire replacement.  

2. Small Cracks

In addition to paying attention to your tires’ tread, you should also inspect the sides for any signs of cracking. These are relatively distinct enough that they can be seen by the naked eye. Cracks can lead to slow air leaks, and eventually a complete blowout, so it’s a good idea to take your car to your mechanic before the situation becomes severe.

3. Tire Bulges

When the outer surface of a tire begins to fail, the rubber will weaken, causing blisters or bulges. These weak spots can be dangerous and cause an unexpected blowout while driving.

4. Excessive Vibration

Lastly, if you begin to notice an unusual amount of vibration in your steering wheel as you drive, it may be another sign that it’s time to replace your tires. While a low level of vibration is considered normal, a drastic difference can mean a variety of things, including misaligned tires, failing shock absorbers, or a problem with the engine. Regardless of the cause, it’s imperative to take your vehicle in ASAP to get it diagnosed.

Are you looking for an auto repair shop to assist with your vehicle repairs and maintenance? For more than 40 years, residents in Milledgeville, GA, have turned to the premier auto repair shop, Ivey’s Tire Service, to keep their vehicles operating smoothly.  Whether you have a problem under the hood or between the wheels, this experienced team is committed to providing quick and reliable diagnostics at a fair cost. Give them a call at (478) 452-2621 to schedule a service appointment. You can also visit them online for more information about their 24-hour roadside assistance and free shuttle services for customers.