Your vehicle's tires are critical for safety, performance and fuel efficiency. But tires don't last forever - even if you take good care of them, they will eventually need to be replaced. Driving on old, worn-out tires can be very dangerous, especially in rainy or snowy conditions around Fairfield, OH and other parts of southwest Ohio. So how do you know when it's time for a new set? Here are some of the key signs to look out for.
Check Your Tire Tread Depth
The most reliable way to determine if you need new tires is to check your tread depth. Tread is the pattern of grooves on the tire surface that provides traction and channels away water. As tires wear down over time, the tread gets shallower, reducing traction and increasing the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads in places like Cincinnati.
An easy way to check tread depth is with the penny test. Take a penny and insert it upside down into a tire groove. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tread is too shallow and it's time to replace the tire. Ideally, tread depth should be at least 4/32" for good all-weather performance. Many tires also have tread wear indicator bars that become visible when it's time for replacements.
Look for Signs of Damage or Irregular Wear
In addition to normal tread wear, keep an eye out for other tire issues that may require replacement. For example, if you frequently drive on rough roads around Dayton, your tires may develop bubbles, bulges or blisters on the sidewall. These indicate that the structure of the tire has been compromised and the tire needs to be replaced immediately.
Uneven or irregular tread wear patterns are another cause for concern. If you notice that one side of a tire is wearing faster than the other, or there are bald patches amid the tread, you likely have a wheel alignment or balancing issue. This type of irregular wear means the tire will need to be replaced sooner. It's best to have the alignment or balance corrected at the same time to prevent uneven wear on your new tires.
Consider the Age of Your Tires
Even if the tread still looks okay, tires degrade over time due to exposure to heat, oxygen and other environmental factors. Vehicle manufacturers generally recommend replacing tires after 6 years, regardless of mileage or wear. However, if you frequently drive in hot weather conditions like we experience during summers in Hamilton, your tires may need to be replaced even sooner.
You can check the age of your tires by looking at the DOT number stamped on the sidewall. The last 4 digits indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured. For example, a number ending in "3717" means the tire was made in the 37th week of 2017.
Pay Attention to Ride Quality and Noise
Finally, if you've started to notice that your vehicle vibrates at higher speeds or seems especially loud on the highway near Middletown, OH, it may be due to tire issues like chopped or cupped tread, or internal tire separation. Tires can also get out of balance over time, causing vibration. If you notice changes in how your vehicle rides or handles, it's best to have the tires inspected.
If you're experiencing any of these tire issues, don't wait to get them checked out. Bring your vehicle to the service center at Jeff Wyler Fairfield Kia and our technicians will inspect your tires and let you know if it's time for a new set. We'll make sure your vehicle is equipped for safe driving in any weather. Stop by our dealership at 5815 Dixie Hwy in Fairfield, OH and let us take care of all your tire needs.