ALT-1 Automotive Maintenance when to Replace Tires
How to determine if your car tires need to be replaced is crucial information for any driver to know. Driving can become extremely hazardous if tires are driven too far without proper maintenance especially during unpredictable weather conditions.
When in doubt about the condition of the tires of your vehicle, take them to a service station for a quick diagnostic inspection. The attendant or mechanic can tell immediately and usually for no cost if the tires need to be replaced.
The best preventive maintenance for the tires of any car is to have the tires rotated every 5000 miles. A good rule of thumb is to have the tires rotated when the oil is changed. Some cars now only require an oil change every 5000 miles. If your car requires an oil change every 3000 miles, perhaps rotate the tires every two oil changes. Rotation of the tire prevents wear and tear consistently in one place on the tread of each tire, and secures proper alignment for the rest of your vehicle as well.
To help determine when car tires need replacement, there are several spot clues you can catch on your own:
1. When you buy tires - Write down the mileage recommendation for the time of purchase. Check the mileage of your car at the time the tires are purchased and write that down along with the tire information and place the envelope in your glove box. Check it periodically.
2. Look at the tires when they are purchased. See the little pieces of rubber sticking out? Those are indicators. When those are gone, the tires need to be checked and probably changed.
3. Uneven wear. Even with proper rotation, if your car doesn't feel smooth, the people rotating your tires are neglecting to tell you something. Probably your tires need replacing. Your steering wheel may start shaking a little when driving. This is one of those indicators.
4. Check tire pressure often when you get gas for your car. Everyone should have their own pressure gauge and know the proper pressure needed for the tires of the car. If not, have a service station attendant check tire pressure of each tire from time to time. If a tire needs to be filled on a regular basis, it is leaking somewhere probably because of some type of internal damage. It should be replaced.
5. Check the groove of tires. Tires should all have a grooves. And if you see any steel, replace the tire immediately! The tire is worn beyond the rubber in spots and could blow. Also watch for any bump or bubbles, even on the sides. These are both very bad signs.
6. Especially in rain, sleet, etc...watch for hydroplaning. In winter, there is going to some sliding due to ice and snow, but rain should not cause your tires to give. This is an indicator your tire tread my be worn, and tires should be replaced.
Budget may be a problem. Please remember, the tires are supporting your entire vehicle. Everything is riding on those tires. Your safety and those you love depend on good tires. If money is tight, tires should be replaced two at a time. For a front wheel drive vehicle, put the best two tires in the front, and rotate the two best older tires to the back. Then replace those as soon as possible.
Tread is everything. Check tires often. Do not drive tires over the recommended mileage. To get maximum life from a tire, rotate tires according to the owners manual of your car and according to the instructions of the tires. Check your car. Drive safe.
