Be honest, when was the last time you looked at your tires? Do not worry. You are not on your own. Many people are unclear about how to undertake basic maintenance checks on their vehicles and rely on scheduled servicing to identify significant issues. However, sometimes problems occur sooner than expected.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Department of Transportation, there were 622 tire-related fatalities in 2021 alone. On average, the NHTSA reports 11,000 tire-related vehicle crashes every year.
Many factors affect tire traction, including the weather and the type of road surface. Worn tires have less traction and are more susceptible to punctures. You may also suffer a blowout, which can be a result of reduced tread, underinflated tires, or overloaded vehicles. How sure are you that you will always stay within your vehicle’s maximum weight capacity?
You put your life in the hands of your tires every time you drive. So make sure they are up to the task. Below, we look at five signs that your tires need immediate replacement.
1. Your Tires Keep Losing Pressure
If you notice that your tires are losing pressure regularly, you may have a slow puncture, resulting in the slow release of air. Do not wait to take action. Get your tires checked out and, if necessary, replace them. And if you are not checking your tire pressure regularly, it is essential that you start to do so. Checking the pressure in your tires at least once a month is the general recommendation.
2. Reduced Tread Depth
Each tire will have a tread wear indicator, but when you are not used to checking tires yourself, it is hard to be confident in your own assessment. There is also the penny test, which you may have heard of, that involves sticking a penny into the tire tread groove and seeing if Lincoln’s head is still visible, but when it comes to tire safety, you need to be sure. Speak to a professional.
3. Cracks, Blisters, and Slits
Damage such as cracks, blisters, or slits is a definite indicator of tire age and degradation. Cracks usually appear on the tire wall. Blisters, slits, or bulges in your tires also warrant inspection by a professional.
4. Vibration or Vehicle Pulling to One Side
Vibrations through your steering wheel when you are driving, perhaps only at a certain speed, are often a symptom that the balance or tracking of your tires needs addressing. Check it out if you notice steering wheel vibration, no matter how slight.
Similarly, if you feel a pull to one side when driving, you must check your tires immediately. There could be an issue with your tire pressure or tracking and balancing.
Tracking relates to the alignment of the wheels and can be affected by driving over very bumpy surfaces or speed bumps. Balancing relates to the weight distribution of the wheel. Issues with either can result in uneven wear of your tires.
5. Strange Noises
Noises coming from your wheels in transit can indicate worn tires. Be particularly mindful of whining sounds. It could be an indicator of an old tire. Still, remember that any unexpected noise from your vehicle when driving should be investigated.
Book Your Tire Service Today
At Locust Street Auto Repair, our dedicated team of certified service technicians is committed to providing top-quality car care for your vehicle. We strive to maintain a clean and sanitary shop environment while offering honest, respectful, and transparent services to our valued customers in Redding and the surrounding areas. Do not forget about the importance of regularly maintaining your tires, as they play a crucial role in keeping your vehicle safe on the road. Whether you need tire replacements or any other auto repairs, we are here to help. Contact us today for an appointment at (530) 215-3112 or visit our office in Redding for reliable car care services you can trust.