While you and your passengers sit comfortably in your vehicle, the tires work hard to take you to your destination. Therefore, an essential auto maintenance step is replacing them as soon as they start to wear out. By using the following list, you can determine exactly when to change your tires to stay safe on the road and avoid wheel damage.

How to Tell When You Need New Tires

1. The Penny Test

As you drive on your tires, their tread, or texture, will start to wear down. Since this is what provides traction between your car and the road, driving on a tire with thin tread could raise the risk of hydroplaning or blowouts.

To check your tire tread depth, stick a penny upside down in one of the grooves. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, have the unit replaced.

2. A Bumpy Ride

The next time you get behind the wheel, pay attention to the way your vehicle handles high speeds.

If you’re driving on old tires with uneven patches of wear, the fast spinning motion will likely result in noticeable vibrations. This might happen when you exceed 40 miles per hour. It may also produce unusual humming noises.

3. Professional Inspections

Some tire issues are difficult to spot. Therefore, head into an auto maintenance center for a professional inspection at least once a year. Professionals will identify signs of damage, such as irregular or swollen sidewalls. They will also provide wheel rotations to ensure the tread wears down evenly, which will help you avoid blowouts. 

If you believe your tires need attention, take your car to the auto maintenance experts at Continental Motors. Based in Greensboro, NC, this company has been serving drivers since 1986. They provide tire rotations and alignments to ensure the efficiency of your vehicle. Learn more about their work online or call (336) 275-4791 to request a free estimate.