As the point of contact between your vehicle and the road, tires must be kept in good shape to maintain your car’s overall performance and safety. Over time, however, even the best tires will start to lose their integrity and possibly put you in danger of problems on the road. If you’re concerned about the wheels on your vehicle, here are a few ways to tell that it’s time to visit your auto repair shop for a new set of tires.

When Should You Change Your Tires?

When the Tread Is Low

While some treads may be tougher than others, all will start to wear away after traveling several thousand miles. When this occurs, you’ll face a higher risk of blowing out on rough surfaces or spinning out in slick conditions.

Most products feature tread wear bars that will become exposed as soon as the material has degraded to a point where replacement is needed. You can also measure tread wear by sticking a penny upside down in the grooves. If Abe Lincoln’s head isn’t at all covered by the tread, it’s time for a new set of wheels.

When There Are Cracks in the Sidewall

Cracks can form in tires due to vehicle alignment issues, exposure to the elements, or age. If you spot this kind of damage, have all affected tires replaced as soon as possible, as sidewall cracks can increase the risk of blowouts. To prevent potential sidewall cracks in the future, it’s also a good idea to have an auto repair specialist correct your vehicle’s alignment.

When Your Vehicle Shakes

Vehicles can shake for many different reasons. In some cases, the vibration may simply occur due to uneven road surfaces. However, if you experience the sensation every time you drive, your tires are likely to blame. With help from an auto repair specialist, you can determine if the shaking can be fixed by aligning or balancing the wheels. If these solutions don’t work, the problem could be due to interior damage in the tire, which is an issue that requires replacement.

When They’re Old

Even when the tread is thick and the sidewalls are intact, tires will naturally degrade over time. After several years, the rubber interior will begin to crack and wear away, increasing the likelihood of flats and blowouts. Since modern tires can last anywhere from five to 10 years, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer instructions to determine how long you can leave them on the vehicle.

If it’s time to have your tires replaced, turn to the trusted professionals at Cheatwood’s Service Station in Heflin, AL. Equipped with a variety of affordable new and used tires, this auto repair shop makes the replacement process as stress-free as possible so you can get back on the road with confidence. In addition, this shop offers tire rotation and alignment services to help extend the life of your wheels. For more information about these services, visit this local mechanic online or call (256) 463-7968.