Most people don’t give much thought to their tires until they need to repair a flat. But, tires do require preventive maintenance from time to time, and they also eventually need to be replaced. Driving on the same tires for too long can be dangerous. These signs mean that it may be time to change your tires.
Frequent Flats
It may be possible to patch up a leak once or twice in a tire, but eventually, it is best to replace it. A tire with patched holes is more likely to cause problems in the future, which could mean getting a flat at a more inconvenient time. If you get a flat tire, a patch kit is best used as a temporary solution until you are able to replace the tire.
Low Efficiency
If you have noticed that your fuel efficiency rating has decreased since you first got your vehicle, it may be time to replace your tires. Worn tires can decrease your vehicle’s efficiency, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more gas. Putting additional pressure on your engine can also put extra wear and tear on the vehicle.
Worn Tread
One of the easiest ways to gauge when it is time to change your tires is by checking the tires’ tread. Over time, your tires’ tread wears down. Because tire tread is important for good traction, it’s important to check it regularly. It’s easy if you have a penny! Put a penny between the treads in the center of the tire. If the tread is even with the top of Lincoln’s head, or lower, then it’s time to replace your tires.
You Haven’t Changed Them in Over Six Years
At minimum, it is also important to replace your tires at least every six years, if not sooner. If you bought the vehicle used, or you just don’t remember when you bought your tires, you can look up the numbers on the tires to get their manufacture date. The numbers usually come after the letters DOT. If you can’t find the numbers or are unsure how to read them, you can also ask your tire company.
Reasons To Regularly Change Your Tires
Your tires are an important part of your vehicle. In addition to having reduced efficiency, tires that are in bad condition can be dangerous by making it more difficult to drive in rainy or icy weather. Worn or damaged tires are also at a greater risk of blowing out, which can be extremely dangerous. It is also important to choose the right tires for your vehicle and your driving conditions. If you’re not sure what kind of tires are best for you, consider asking your local tire shop for help.
Monitoring the condition of your tires and changing them routinely are important parts of maintaining your vehicle and your safety. Come by Legacy Ford to have the condition of your tires inspected by a helpful technician. We also carry high-quality tires and can help you find the right set.
Image by Hannes Edinger from Pixabay | CC BY 0
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