Signs You Need New Tires | Pittsburgh, PA

Your Tires Are Bald

The number one, most obvious sign, is bad tires. Bald tires are not safe to drive on and are very prone to tire failure, especially in icy or snowy weather. Bald tires do now allow you to brake or just drive safely in general.

Your Car is Constantly Shaking

Is your car constantly shaking on even the most pristine highways? It may be time to buy new tires. The shaking can come from bad tire balance or alignment, but there could also be an issue with the interior of the tire.

You’ve Been Driving With the Spare for Awhile

A spare tire is great when you are in a pinch and need a quick fix, but it’s not a permanent solution. Driving on a spare tire for a long time is bad for your car. They aren’t as durable as regular tires, nor do they provide as much traction, have less cornering ability, and are overall not meant for permanent use.

Your Sidewalls Have Cracks or Gouges

Sidewalls get worn down over time from ice, rain, and natural aging. Poor alignment can also lead to damaged sidewalls, resulting in a potential blowout, and maybe even an accident.

A wear bar is a rubber bar that is perpendicular to the tire tread. As the tread wears, the wear bar becomes more visible. When it’s even with the wear bar, it’s time to buy new tires.

Most tires come with a tread wear warranty, guaranteeing they last a certain about of years or miles. When the date has been passed, it’s a great idea to have your tires looked at and consider buying new ones.

Uneven tread wear can come from bad alignment or improper tire pressure. Regularly checking your tire pressure is a great way to keep an eye on your tires and determine if you need new ones.

If cords are showing through the rubber on your tires, you definitely need new tires. Driving for too long like this will ultimately result in tire failure.

If it regularly snows where you live, this can ultimately wear down your tires as regular tires are not meant to be driven in the snow. It’s best to buy snow tires if this is the case.

t’s time to buy new tires if your tires can’t pass the penny test! Take a penny, with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head above the tread, your tread is below 2/32” and it’s time to get new tires.