Old tires are dangerous tires. Their security value diminishes as they age, leaving them vulnerable to blowouts among other problems that compromise your safety and that of your passengers. Learn the warning signs indicating the need for new tires so you always stay safe on the road.

How to Tell If It’s Time for New Tires

Lack of Tread

The longer tires are on the road helping you get from Point A to Point B, they more they wear down. Balding tires are extremely dangerous because they no longer feature the tread that helps them grip the road and accommodate slippery conditions. If you are unsure how much yours have worn down, use the classic penny test to determine tread depth. If you can see President Lincoln’s head, you need new tires.

Sidewall Cracks

Cracks in the sidewalls of tires emerge as the vehicle component ages. Rubber naturally becomes brittle over time, with tires especially vulnerable to degradation because of exposure to the elements. Cracks increase the chances of blowouts that can result in serious accidents and injuries. Inspect your tires periodically for sidewall cracks and similar damage to avoid dangerous blowout complications. If you have kept your vehicle in storage for a significant period, check the tires for cracks and rot before you drive it.

DOT Number

Every tire receives a U.S. Department of Transportation, or DOT, number during manufacturing. Those produced after 2000 have four-digit codes representing the month and year they were made. If a tire was manufactured in April of 2002, for example, it will feature a 0402 DOT code. Tires made before 2000 have three-digit codes telling you the week and the year it was made, but not the decade. This makes it harder to determine the product’s age; however, any three-digit code signals older tires that may have sustained dry rot depending on storage conditions.
 

M & C Tire provides drivers throughout Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish, Lakeside, and Somers, MT with the highest-quality new tires from name brands, including those for passenger, ATV, commercial, and industrial vehicles. A Tire Industry Association-certified community staple for over 40 years, the family-owned shop also offers a variety of services, including oil changes and wheel alignments. Call (406) 752-9662 to make an appointment today or review the impressive inventory online. Like the Facebook page for additional vehicle maintenance tips.