Do
you need new tires? Most car owners know that they need tires when
the existing set goes irreparably flat, of course. But your vehicle
could need new tires in a variety of other situations as well. What
are some of these situations? Here are four of the most common
reasons to shop for some new tires.
1.
When the Tread is Worn
By
far the most common reason to buy new tires is that the tread has
worn off the old ones. Tread is the name for the vertical grooves
that protect the tire's structure from the road and what give your
car good traction when driving. But tread wears down after repeated
use and exposes the base of the tire to the elements. This can cause
tears, cracks, and even failure.
The
easiest way to know if your tread has worn down enough to warrant
replacements is called the 'penny test'. Place a penny, head first,
into the grooves of the tire. If you can see the top of Abraham
Lincoln's head, you should shop for tires right away. If you perform
the same test with a quarter and see Washington's head, you'll need
tires soon.
2.
When Your Driving Needs Change
Have
you moved recently? If so, your tires could face new driving
challenges such as serious weather differences or new road
conditions. When you move from a warm climate, you usually don't have
winter tires installed, and you'll likely see the difference when
winter snow or ice hits. Or, if you used to drive on rural roads
often and now have a city commute, your tire needs may change.
Many
life changes could alter your tire needs. A long commute, retirement,
or frequently driving kids around could all make changes in how you
drive. Make sure your tires fit the current way you use the vehicle.
3.
When You Notice Performance Issues
How
is your car's comfort and performance? Do you hear significant road
noise or experience a bumpy ride? This may indicate that your tires
could use an upgrade or update. What about fuel economy? If you don’t
get the mileage from your fill-ups that you should, poor tires could
be a cause. If you've noticed something about your current riding
experience that's less than satisfactory, ask a tire specialist if a
change might alleviate the issue.
4.
When the Tires are Old
What
about those car owners who don't drive a lot of miles? If your car
sits in the driveway more than it's on the road, the tread may not
wear down very fast, but the tires are still subject to the elements
and to normal aging. High heat over a long summer or continued frozen
temperatures can cause chemical changes in the many compounds that
make up a tire.
The
most likely chemical change you will experience is called oxidation —
exposure to oxygen molecules. Oxidation makes tire rubber brittle and
less flexible, which can cause tread separation and cracks when you
do use the vehicle.
Many
experts recommend that a professional inspect your tires at least
once every five or six years. A thorough physical examination can
tell if the rubber or connections are breaking down or might become
hazardous on the road.
Does
your vehicle's circumstances fall into any of these categories? No
matter whether your driving habits have changed or you have either
high-mileage or aging tires, a proper inspection can help determine
if you would benefit from a new set of tires. At Euroclassics
Limited,
our tire pros can help you find out. Call today to make an
appointment or learn more.
