When deciding if it is time to replace the tires on your car, the prime consideration is safety. The safety of every person who rides in your vehicle is affected by the condition of your tires.
Many times, people neglect to examine their tires. They get busy, or they just don't know how to check them. Before they know it, weeks, months and even years have gone by since their tires were checked. This can lead to disaster.
Tires should always be examined before and after a trip and at least once a month under normal conditions. Here are some of the things you should check:
• The tread
Obviously, if you can see the chords or steel bands that are embedded in your tire, it is past time for the tire to be replaced. However, tires can become dangerous long before they get to that stage.
If a tire doesn't have enough tread, it will not be able to channel water properly. This can result in hydroplaning, especially at high speeds. If you live in a cold climate, it can also reduce your traction in the snow.
Many tires today have wear bars. These are narrow bands that appear in the grooves of the treads. If they are even with the depth of the tread, only 2/32" remains on the tread. The tire should be replaced.
If your tires don't have wear bars, or for an easier way to check, use a penny. Stand a penny in the groove of the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, you need a new tire.
Do not check the tire in just one spot. Tires can develop "flat spots" from harsh braking or skidding that can wear off the tread in just one spot. That spot becomes weak and vulnerable to a blow out. Examine the entire surface of the tire, moving the car to check the areas that are in contact with the pavement.
You will also want to check that one side of the tire is not wearing faster than the other. When this happens, it means that your wheels are out of alignment and are causing your tires to wear unevenly. In this instance, you should have the wheels realigned.
• The sidewalls
Check the sidewalls of each tire, both inside and outside. If you see any bulges or cracks or any other type of damage, the tire should be replaced immediately. Check to be sure that the tires fit evenly and snugly around the wheel rims. This situation can cause air to leak.
• The air pressure
If the air pressure in your tires is not stable, you have a leak. If you suspect a leak, put some soapy water on the tire and look for bubbles. If you find any, have the tire repaired or replaced.
Some hints to make your tires last longer.
Always inflate them properly. Overinflated tires wear out faster. They can also blow out faster and make your car unstable.
Underinflated tires will make you use more fuel. They will also wear out faster and make the car harder to handle.
Remove any debris that gets embedded in the treads. Do not remove a nail unless you are able to replace the tire with a spare if it loses air.
You can drive home or to a repair shop with a nail in your tire, but do not drive on a flat tire unless it is an absolute emergency.
In addition to checking the tires, you should have the alignment checked regularly. Wheels that are out of alignment can wear out a set of tires in a very short time, sometimes in just a few days of hard driving.
If you care for your tires properly, replacing them when necessary, they will last longer and your vehicle will give you a much better ride.
Keeping up your car maintenance is a car owner's responsibility. For safety and piece of mind, when buying a used car in Las Vegas, be sure you know what you are getting. All vehicles at J.D. Byrider undergo a comprehensive inspection.
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