New tires. Tire repairs. Wheel alignments. Headaches and hassles that come with owning a car, or simple maintenance you can plan for if you take the time to get to know your tires? We like to think it’s the latter. If you know when you’re going to need new tires, you can take the time to choose the right tires for your vehicle and get them installed when it’s convenient for you. Same for a wheel alignment—knowing when and under what circumstances you need a wheel alignment gives you the confidence to invest in one. As for a tire repair, being able to trust your auto repair shop is crucial for determining when a tire repair is a viable option. Read on for more tire tips.
Tire Alignment
Testing your tires tread will cost you a small fee of one cent. This is commonly referred to as the penny test. It’s a small price to pay when it comes to your tires and safety. First, place a penny head first into different tread grooves throughout the tire. If the top of Lincoln’s head is continuously showing, it is likely that the treads are low and used up. If you find yourself in this situation, you will need new tires. Conversely, if part of Lincoln’s head is consistently enclosed by the tread, you most likely have more than 2/32 of an inch of tread depth left to work with.
Other Factors
Still, there are countless other circumstances that add on to the damage of tires that are usually uncontrollable, including weather cracking and sidewall integrity. When tires begin to age or are vulnerable to harsh weather surroundings, the rubber starts to lose elasticity and cracks form on the exterior. Light cracking may not indicate you need new tires, but if you start to spot a lot of splintering, it would be smart to take your vehicle to a tire shop where a professional can assist you in deciding if you need new tires.
Tire Alignment
Tire alignment is equally as important to the quality and care of your tires and should also be checked when checking tires. Alignment can help your tires perform properly and help them last longer. It can also improve handling and keep your vehicle from pulling in one direction or vibrating strangely on the road. If you notice that you’re in need of a tire alignment or just aren’t sure, bring your car in to get checked today.