When Should You Replace Your Tires?
It may seem like it was only a short while back that you purchased a new set of tires. But now you find that you are visiting your auto shop fairly frequently for urgent tire repair. That means you may be looking at having to replace your old tires. Although you understand that new tires will provide you with a smoother ride and safer vehicle, you cringe at the thought of putting out so much money on a new set of tires.
But you wonder, when should you replace your tires? They aren’t cheap! Can your tires last a while longer? And how do you know what is the right tire for your vehicle? First, read your owner’s manual. It will state the specific size and tread type recommended by the manufacturer for your vehicle.
So when should you replace your tires? Here are two simple ways in which you can determine if it’s time to replace your old tires:
- The penny test – Insert a U.S. Lincoln penny upside down into the tire’s tread. Tread wears unevenly so test several spots about 15 inches apart. If you can see Lincoln’s head in most of the spots, it’s time for new tires.
- Wear Bars – Most new tires now have built-in “wear bars.” If this wear bar is visible (flush with the outside of the tread), it’s time for new tires.
Because purchase a new set of tires is a big investment in your vehicle, here are a few tips that will help you make the right choice:
- Wheel size. The wheel size information can be found in your owner’s manual and on the information placard on the driver’s door frame.
- Buy a matching set. This will ensure a smoother ride and a greater level of safety.
- Check the spare. Make sure the spare tire is in good condition and that it matches the other tires.
- Wheel alignment and tire balancing. After new tires are installed, they should be both aligned and balanced to help prevent uneven tread wear and maintain driving safety.
- Break-in new tires gently. You want to make sure they wear properly and that the alignment and suspension are in good condition.
Wondering when should you replace your tires? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about tire service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
It may seem like it was only a short while back that you purchased a new set of tires. But now you find that you are visiting your auto shop fairly frequently for urgent tire repair. That means you may be looking at having to replace your old tires. Although you understand that new tires will provide you with a smoother ride and safer vehicle, you cringe at the thought of putting out so much money on a new set of tires.
But you wonder, when should you replace your tires? They aren’t cheap! Can your tires last a while longer? And how do you know what is the right tire for your vehicle? First, read your owner’s manual. It will state the specific size and tread type recommended by the manufacturer for your vehicle.
So when should you replace your tires? Here are two simple ways in which you can determine if it’s time to replace your old tires:
- The penny test – Insert a U.S. Lincoln penny upside down into the tire’s tread. Tread wears unevenly so test several spots about 15 inches apart. If you can see Lincoln’s head in most of the spots, it’s time for new tires.
- Wear Bars – Most new tires now have built-in “wear bars.” If this wear bar is visible (flush with the outside of the tread), it’s time for new tires.
Because purchase a new set of tires is a big investment in your vehicle, here are a few tips that will help you make the right choice:
- Wheel size. The wheel size information can be found in your owner’s manual and on the information placard on the driver’s door frame.
- Buy a matching set. This will ensure a smoother ride and a greater level of safety.
- Check the spare. Make sure the spare tire is in good condition and that it matches the other tires.
- Wheel alignment and tire balancing. After new tires are installed, they should be both aligned and balanced to help prevent uneven tread wear and maintain driving safety.
- Break-in new tires gently. You want to make sure they wear properly and that the alignment and suspension are in good condition.
Wondering when should you replace your tires? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about tire service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
