4 Telltale Signs it's Time to Replace Your Car’s Tires

Buying a used car can be an affordable alternatives to getting a brand new vehicle. If you are cash strapped or do not want to invest a substantial amount, look for online salvage car auctions that offer salvage cars for sale. Whether you own a salvage car or drive a brand new one, you cannot afford to overlook worn out tires. From loss of air pressure to sudden blowouts, damaged tires can open a pandora’s box of troubles. The National Transportation Safety Board estimates that almost 20,000 people are injured in tire- related passenger vehicle crashes every year. To keep out of this list, change your tires periodically. But when is the right time to opt for new tires? In this post, we answer this question by revealing some signs that your car needs new tires. Take a look.

1. Cracks in sidewalls   

Check your sidewalls regularly. Keep an eye for tracks or cuts that can be a sign of a possible leak or may indicate towards even worse things, such as the tires blowing out. If you find distinct grooves in the sidewall, take the car to a mechanic to learn whether you need a replacement immediately.

2. Unusual tread depth

For cars that are driven in normal driving conditions, the tread depth should not plunge below 1/16 of an inch (⅛ of an inch, if you drive your car regularly on wet surfaces). If you do not have a gauge to measure the depth, perform the penny test by inserting Lincoln’s head into the tread. If the entire head is visible, it's time to get new tires.

3. Bulges and blisters 

Outer surface of tires take heavy punishment and can, with time, become weak due to regular wear and tear. Check the outer surface of your tires regularly, and look for bulges and blisters that extend outward. These bulges and blisters, if left unattended, can get prominent resulting in a blow out, giving rise to serious safety concerns, especially when you are on the road. To stay safe, do not take chances and consult a mechanic immediately.    

4. The tread wear indicator bar becomes prominent

Modern tires have indicator bars for tread wear. In new tires, these bars cannot be seen or are barely visible. These bars, with time, start becoming prominent indicating wear. If you find more than one or a couple of bars, its advisable that you seek expert help.

Wrap up  

These are some signs that you need new tires. If your car vibrates too much, get it checked as it may be a sign of bad things to come. Take precautionary steps to extend the service life of your tires and follow manufacturer’s instructions to avoid safety and convenience concerns.