15,000 car accidents in the US every year are caused by tire issues. With such a high chance of disaster, keeping your vehicle’s tires up to date should be a top priority. Many warning signs tell you when your tires are wearing down.
Routinely checking your tires for damage will help you to better pinpoint when it’s time to replace your tires. Keep reading to learn how to identify tire problems and know when it’s time for them to be replaced.
Vibrations or Unusual Noises
Hearing or feeling vibrations in your vehicle while you’re driving can be a telltale sign that your tires are going bad.
Drivers may experience vibrations in their steering wheel or throughout the cabin of the car. These vibrations typically occur when the vehicle is operating at high mileages but can be experienced at any speed.
These vibrations can signal multiple tire problems. Your wheels and tires may be improperly balanced, causing rattling on the axis. Separated tire tread, uneven wear in the tires, or the tires being out-of-round can also cause vibrations when driving.
Since vibrations can signal wheel and/or tire issues, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected if you’re experiencing this.
Air Pressure Issues
If your tire pressure light comes on, this doesn’t necessarily mean your tires are going bad. It’s normal for tire pressure to reduce over time as you drive your car, needing occasional air fills.
However, if your check tire pressure light is coming on often, this could mean you have potential tire problems. Pressure issues usually mean there is a puncture somewhere in the tire.
Alternatively, not filling the tires to their required pressure can also cause tire problems. A lack of air in the tires leads to a shorter tire lifespan. Worst case scenario is the low tire pressure causes a blowout, which can be dangerous.
Worn Tread and Age
Your tires should receive even wear across the entire surface. Having balanced tires and rotating them on schedule helps them wear even and avoid tire problems.
Uneven tire alignment, worn-out suspension, or over/underinflation can cause unevenly worn tread. Having uneven wear on your tires makes it difficult to come to a quick and complete stop, putting your life at risk.
Even if there hasn’t been anything unusual happening with your tires, they may be going bad from old age and normal wear and tear. Different types of tires last longer than others. Tires should be replaced on average every six years.
To tell the age of a tire by the tread, use the penny method. Placing a penny in the tread of your tire, turn Lincoln’s head, so it is upside down. If his head completely disappears, your tires still have life left in them!
Address Your Potential Tire Problems
One of the most important components of the vehicle is the tires. Identifying signs that might mean potential tire problems or damages right away is critical to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive.