Buying new tires may not sound like a fun way to spend your money, especially during the holiday season. But, tire replacement could be the best thing you do for yourself, your family, and your vehicle if it means you have something safer to drive.

How to know if you need tire replacement

Fortunately, knowing whether or not you need new tires doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Instead, look for these 5 signs that tire replacement is a smart idea:

1. Cracks or cuts – Tires are made of rubber which can break down as it is continually exposed to the elements. Look for cracks in the sidewall or between tread blocks to see if your tires are wearing out.
2. Bulges or bubbles – These are never safe but sometimes they show up after you hit a curb, pot hole, or other object. Tire bulges are a serious safety risk and if you see them, schedule tire replacement immediately.
3. Insufficient tread depth – Tire tread is important for keeping your vehicle on the road. Once tread depthreaches 2/32”, it’s time for new tires.
4. Vibrating – Tires that are out of balance or unevenly worn can cause you to feel vibrations while driving. Sometimes, all that is needed is a tire rotation or balancing. If the problem is more serious, however, your trusted auto mechanic may suggest tire replacement instead.
5. Physical damage – This can happen from getting a nail or stone embedded into the tire. Sometimes, the tire is quickly punctured and you end up with a flat tire. Other times, however, the damage is not so obvious. Debris can be stuck in the tire and only cause a slow leak or gradual damage. Periodic visual inspection of your tires can help catch some problems while they are still able to be repaired and prevent the need for complete tire replacement.

Preventative maintenance can prevent tire problems

Ultimately, it’s important to understand that tires are not meant to last forever. With a little TLC and preventative maintenance, however, you can make them last as long as possible. For example, regular tire rotation and making sure your tires are balanced can ensure even wear and prevent damage. In addition, periodic tire inspection can reveal small problems that can be fixed before they become bigger, more expensive problems.

What’s the best way to prevent premature tire replacement? Stay up-to-date with vehicle maintenance at your favorite auto repair shop. There’s never been a better time to schedule an appointment for tire service!