Tires are one of the most critical safety components on your vehicle. Driving on worn or damaged tires can be extremely dangerous, especially in adverse weather conditions. Luckily, there are several warning signs that indicate it's time for a new set of tires. Jeff Wyler Springfield Auto Mall in Springfield, OH is here to help you know what to look out for.
1. Tread Wear
One easy way to check your tire tread is with the penny test. Take a penny and place it in the tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down and facing you. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 inch and it's time to replace your tires. Driving with bald or low tread tires is extremely dangerous, especially on wet roads where your car can easily hydroplane.
2. Tire Damage
Regularly inspect your tires for any cuts, cracks, bulges or blisters in the sidewalls. These indicate that the tire has been damaged and the structural integrity is compromised. If you spot any of this damage, have your tires replaced immediately. Continuing to drive on a damaged tire can lead to a sudden blowout on the road, which can be disastrous especially at highway speeds in areas like Dayton.
3. Tire Pressure
Both underinflated and overinflated tires will cause uneven wear and can seriously impact performance. Check your tire pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold. Properly inflated tires will give you the best traction, handling and durability - especially important for navigating curvy roads around Yellow Springs.
4. Vibration & Pulling
If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or your car pulls to one side while driving on a straight, flat road, this usually indicates an issue with tire balance or wheel alignment. While not necessarily a sign you need new tires, these symptoms mean you should have your tires checked by a professional. Catching an alignment issue early can help prevent premature wear. The service center at Jeff Wyler Springfield Auto Mall offers free tire inspections to help keep your car safe on the road.
5. Tire Age
Even if the tread still looks good, tires that are more than 6 years old need to be replaced. As rubber ages, it dries out and becomes brittle, increasing the risk of a failure. You can check the age of your tires by looking at the DOT code on the sidewall - the last four digits indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured. Don't let the age of your tires put you at risk on your commute from New Carlisle.
Get a Free Tire Inspection
If you're unsure about the condition of your tires, come visit us our service center at Jeff Wyler Springfield Auto Mall. Located conveniently at 1501 Hillcrest Ave in Springfield, our service experts will perform a complimentary multi-point inspection including checking your tires. We'll help determine if you need a rotation, balance, alignment, or a new set of tires to keep you safe on the roads from Beavercreek to Springdale and beyond. Schedule your appointment today!