Along with allowing your car to move in different directions, vehicle tires create traction to prevent vehicular skidding and accidents. They can last up to ten years depending on factors like frequency of use, driving habits, and road conditions. Know the signs they need to be replaced to stay safe on the road.

How Do I Know It’s Time To Replace My Tires?

General Signs 

As tires wear down from continued use, they become “bald” or tread-free. Do not drive with bald tires because they feature little to no tread and dramatically increase the chances of sliding on the road, especially in rainy or icy conditions. Keep in mind that front tires typically wear out faster than back tires because they take on the majority of turning actions. If you only need to replace bald front tires, ask your auto mechanic to put the back tires on your front axles to encourage even wear.

Quarter Tests

Perform the quarter test to determine if you need to replace one or more tires. To test your tire’s tread, take a quarter and push it into your tire’s groove. Ideally, you want your tread to be an eighth of an inch deep, which aligns fairly well with the measurements of a quarter. If Washington’s head is showing when you push the coin down, you may want to consider new tires. 

Punctures, Cracks, Bulges, & Blisters

Along with keeping up with tire tread, perform monthly inspections for punctures from nails and other foreign objects. Nails lodged in tires may not immediately blow them out and instead cause slow air leaks. Also inspect the sidewalls for cracks, bulges, and blisters. All of these issues can cause blowouts leading to loss of vehicular control. Maintain air pressure based on your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations to prevent excessive flexing that causes cracks and other damages, especially during summer when rubber is more malleable and prone to bending.

Don’t wait to get your tires replaced. Work with H & S Tire & Auto Center in Wentzville, MO, for personalized, honest service that keeps you safe behind the wheel. Since 1967, the auto inspection and repair center provides drivers throughout St. Charles County with services their big-box competitors cannot provide. Call (636) 327-5225 today to schedule a free estimate or visit the auto repair center online for more service information. Get additional auto maintenance tips on Facebook.