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Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that come into physical contact with the road, making proper tire maintenance a crucial element of driver safety. With the ability to stop, start, and transport us wherever we wish to go, having well maintained tires can mean the difference between a pleasant Sunday drive and a Sunday spent in the shop. There are three crucial components to consider when deciding if it is time to replace your tires: your normal driving conditions, tread wear, and the age of your tires.

 

Weather conditions can be a major effect on the longevity of any tire. Tires used in more strenuous environments, such as areas with extreme temperature changes, can wear down much faster than tires used in more neutral climates. Inspect your tires for cracking, and other external signs of distress, as often tires in extreme elements will experience structural issues before their tread runs out. While the tire might seem operational, driving cracked tires is equally as dangerous as driving tires without a proper tread. 

 

Observing tread wear is often the easiest way to determine if your tires need to be replaced. There are several tips and tricks to checking the tread of any tire, including a simple inspection with only one small tool - a penny. Take the penny and place it head first into a few treads along the tire. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, the tire tread is worn and should be replaced. The preferred tire tread depth is above 2/32 of an inch. While it is always best to have a certified mechanic check your tires, this simple practice can help keep you safe on the road. 

 

Even tires that have been maintained properly and used in preferred weather conditions will need to eventually be replaced. Regardless of your tire’s current tread wear, it is encouraged by vehicle manufacturers to replace tires every six years. Tire manufacturers recommend tire replacement every ten years, although each tire brand and manufacturer will have different guidelines and recommendations. Whether you need new tires or simply wish to have a professional inspection of your current set, stay up to date with tire checks and replacement for the best vehicle performance.