Your tires take you everywhere, through sun and rain. Tires don’t last forever, though, so how do you know when it’s time to replace them with new tires from your Ford dealer?
Tread Depth Is Lacking
The most straightforward way to check if you need to replace your tires is to inspect the tread depth. The legal minimum tread depth in most states, including Washington, is 2/32 of an inch. A simple way to measure this is with the penny test. Take a penny and insert it into your tire’s tread with Abraham Lincoln’s head upside-down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread depth is too shallow.
Uneven Wear Patterns
Take a moment to inspect the wear on your tires. If one side of the tire is more worn than the other, or if you notice irregular bald spots, this could indicate alignment issues, improper inflation, or problems with your suspension.
Cracks in the Sidewall
Over time, tires can develop cracks in the sidewall from exposure to the elements or simply from aging. These cracks can compromise the structural integrity of the tire, leading to slow leaks or even a blowout. Regular inspections can help catch these issues early, but cracking sidewalls means a tire change is necessary.
Bulges and Blisters
Bulges or blisters on your tire’s surface are signs of internal damage, where the outer surface is weakening and may soon lead to a blowout. This issue is often caused by hitting a pothole or curb. If you spot a bulge or blister, it’s best not to wait. Tires with this damage should be replaced immediately.
Too Much Noise and Vibration
While it’s normal for a car to vibrate slightly on rough roads, too much noise or vibration while driving could indicate tire issues. This might be a sign your tires are misaligned or imbalanced, or perhaps that they are damaged internally.
Aging Tires
Tires break down over time, no matter how little driving you do. They should be replaced every six years, even if they still look okay. The rubber in your tires degrades over time, reducing their effectiveness. Check your sidewall for the date your tires were made to see if they’re too old.
Constantly Low Pressure
Finding yourself frequently at the air pump? Tires naturally lose air over time, but if you’re topping up more than usual, it could indicate leaks from punctures or valve stem issues.
Buy New Tires at Your Ford Dealer
Your local dealership is the best place to find a range of tires specifically designed to match your vehicle. Plus, we offer expert advice and professional installation. When it’s time to replace your tires, our certified technicians ensure you’re getting quality products and services tailored to your vehicle.
As soon as you notice any signs of tire trouble, it’s time to get things checked out. Call Pierre Ford of Seattle in Seattle, WA, to schedule your next tire inspection today.
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