Tires do more than move your vehicle. Their treads grip the road, creating friction that prevents you from skidding. Correct tire pressure also increases fuel economy because your vehicle doesn’t have to work as hard to move forward, backward, or turn. Learn when you need to change these essential auto parts to ensure your safety on the road.

Factors That Influence Your Tires’ Lifespan

Age & Distance

While tires are typically designed to last up to 10 years, most do not hit this milestone due to wear and tear from driving. If you drive between 12,000 and 15,000 miles annually, for example, consider replacing your rubber after three to four years. Factors such as road conditions and driving habits also influence when you should request replacement services. Aggressive driving on poorly maintained or dirt roads calls for replacements sooner than “regular” driving on evenly paved surfaces.

Objects on the Road

In addition to aggressive driving on roads littered with potholes, common causes of tire damage include sharp objects such as nails that puncture rubber. Driving into curbs wears down sidewalls, while driving over curbs upsets wheel alignment. Curbs and other impact-related damages such as potholes throw off wheel alignment, resulting in uneven tire wear because the auto parts no longer fully point forward. While you can still drive a misaligned vehicle, you’ll experience handling problems such as pulling to one side in addition to premature rubber wear.

Poor Tire Condition

Auto parts provide numerous warning signs when they need to be replaced or serviced. If your tread is low, your tires can no longer grip the road and should be replaced. Continuing to drive increases the possibility of slipping and sliding, especially on wet or icy surfaces. Use the quarter test to determine tread depth — place the coin head side down between the grooves. If you can see all or most of Washington’s head, schedule a replacement.

Other signs calling for replacement services include blistered, bulging, or cracked sidewalls from years of wear and tear. Any serious punctures in the rubber require replacement services as well. 

Get your tires replaced at Brothers Tire Sales to enjoy a safer vehicle. Offering over 200 years of combined experience and 57 years in the industry, this family-oriented company provides drivers throughout Kannapolis, NC, and the surrounding areas with dependable services. Brands include Michelin® and BFGoodrich®. Call (704) 933-­2203 today to request a quote or review the inventory online.