Good car tires are important in keeping you and your vehicle safe.

4 Key Signs You Need New Tires

We all want to stay safe on the road, but that’s something that’s only really possible with the right tires in on our cars. If your tires are old and worn out, they’re not going to be safe to use on the road because they simply won’t be able to perform properly.

If you’re unsure of whether or not the time is right for you to replace your car’s tires, there are some simple signs to look out for that will give you that answer. 

Your Tires’ Expiration Date

Many people don’t even realize it, but tires have an expiration date stamped on them. This tells you when you should consider replacing the tires for optimal safety. Usually, the tires should last for about six years, although how much you use the car will obviously impact that.

The expiration date is one of the first and easiest things you can check if you want to see whether now is the right time for you to replace your tires with new ones. If you’ve already passed or will soon pass that expiration date, it’s probably time for new tires.

The Penny Test

Another easy way to tell whether or not you need to think about getting new tires is by performing the penny test. This effectively tells you how worn down the tread of the tires is, which is a key indicator of condition.

You simply take a penny and hold it on the tire between the treads. Put Lincoln’s head toward the tire and if the top of his head can be seen, your tires are more worn down than they should be. It’s a simple way to check how worn the tread is and will tell you quickly whether they need to be replaced.

Visible Damage to the Tires

Sometimes, simply taking a look at your tires will tell you all you need to know about whether they need to be replaced or not. If you can see visible damage and very obvious signs of wear, it’s probably time for a change.

Punctures and things embedded in the tire, like a nail, can sometimes be repaired. But if the sidewall of the tire is damaged, replacement will be the only way forward.

Vibration While Driving

If you’re noticing a lot of excessive vibration when driving your car, it might be because the tires are past their best and need to be replaced. It can also be a sign of tire misalignment or even suspension problems, so this kind of vibration should always be explored until the source of it is found.

If you find any of the things discussed above when you check your car’s tires, it’s time for you to make a change. Doing so will ensure your car is safe to drive and offers the grip and stability needed to ensure you can maintain maximum control over your vehicle at all times.It might be time consuming or expensive to replace your tires, but your safety is worth it. If you follow the advice in this article and are still unsure about your tires, don’t hesitate to contact a professional at a reputable auto repair shop for help.