4 Times When You May Need New Tires

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.