Your tires are the unsung heroes of your car; they work silently but are absolutely essential to getting you from one place to the other. But just like any superhero, they can only do their job if they’re in peak condition.
So, how do you know when your tires are not performing at their best? Well, they’ll send you warning signs if you’re paying attention. From the hum of a bumpy ride to a sudden drop in performance, your tires will speak up before they completely let you down.
In this piece, we’ll explore the subtle (and not-so-subtle) clues that it’s time for a tire check-up. Here’s all you need to do to make sure your tires are doing their best, so you don’t get caught with a flat:
Bumpy Ride? It's Time to Check the Tread
Ever notice that your car feels bumpier than usual, even on smooth roads? If the ride’s suddenly rougher, your tire tread might be worn down. The tread on your tires provides the grip needed to maintain traction, especially on wet or slippery surfaces. As the tread wears down, your tires lose their ability to grip the road, making it harder to handle your car properly.
What to do: Grab a penny and perform the “penny test.” Place the penny upside down into the grooves of the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s head, your tread has worn down too much, and it’s time to replace the tires.
Vibrations or Pulling? Uneven Wear May be the Culprit
If you feel vibrations or notice your car pulling to one side while driving straight, your tires could be affected by uneven wear. This could happen for a number of reasons, such as misalignment, improper inflation, or a damaged tire. Unevenly worn tires not only affect your driving comfort but can also shorten their lifespan.
What to do: Have your car’s alignment checked regularly and ensure your tires are properly balanced. If you notice any pulling or strange vibrations, it’s time to have your tires inspected by a professional.
Cracks, Bulges, or Blisters Can be a Red Flag
If you notice any visible cracks, bulges, or blisters on the sidewalls of your tires, don’t ignore them. These defects are a clear indication that your tires are in trouble. Bulges or blisters are usually caused by impact damage (like hitting a pothole) or internal tire damage, which can lead to a blowout if not addressed.
What to do: Inspect your tires regularly, especially after rough driving conditions. If you spot a bulge or crack, get the tire replaced immediately. Driving on a damaged tire is risky and can lead to sudden tire failure.
Low Tire Pressure Is Not Just a Minor Issue
If your tire pressure warning light comes on, don’t just dismiss it as a minor annoyance. Under-inflated tires are a leading cause of poor fuel efficiency, increased tire wear, and decreased handling. In extreme cases, they can even lead to a blowout. On the other hand, over-inflated tires can also be dangerous, as they increase the risk of losing traction or damaging the tire.
What to do: Check your tire pressure regularly; do it at least once a month and before long road trips. Follow your vehicle’s manual for the correct tire pressure. If you notice your tire pressure is often low, it might be time to check for a slow leak or have your tires replaced.
Pay Attention to Noisy Tires
Have your tires been making unusual noises, like a high-pitched squeal, thumping, or humming? These sounds can indicate that something’s off. It could be a sign of misalignment, improperly inflated tires, or even debris lodged in your tire. Regardless, it’s a signal that something isn’t quite right.
What to do: If the noise persists, inspect your tires for foreign objects or damage. If you can’t find the source of the sound, take your vehicle to a professional for a closer look. Ignoring tire noise might lead to bigger issues down the road.
Excessive Tire Wear on One Side?
If the tread on one side of your tire looks more worn than the other, it could indicate a problem with the alignment, suspension, or balance of your car. Uneven wear means that your tires are not making contact with the road properly, which can reduce the lifespan of your tires and compromise your safety.
What to do: Schedule an alignment check with a trusted mechanic. A simple adjustment can prevent excessive wear and ensure your tires last longer.
Keep a Check on Flat Tires and Frequent Punctures
While it’s normal to get the occasional nail or sharp object stuck in your tire, constantly dealing with flat tires or punctures can indicate that your tires are becoming too worn to perform properly. If you find yourself patching up tires on a regular basis, it’s time to consider replacing them.
What to do: If your tire has multiple punctures or one that’s too close to the sidewall, it’s likely no longer repairable. Have it replaced to avoid more frequent flats and to ensure your vehicle remains safe.
Replace Tires Older Than Six Years
Tires have a lifespan, and it’s not just about the wear on the tread. Over time, the rubber on your tires can deteriorate, especially if they’ve been exposed to extreme temperatures or sunlight. Tires that are more than six years old may not be as safe as newer ones, even if they don’t appear to be heavily worn.
What to do: Check the sidewall of your tire for the manufacturing date (a four-digit code will tell you the week and year it was made). If your tires are over six years old, consider replacing them—even if they still look good.
Reach Out to the Experts at Mangino Automotive & Tire Center
At Mangino Automotive & Tire Center, we’ve been keeping vehicles safe and running smoothly since 1945. Our team of ASE Master Certified technicians, led by Cody Hiner and Travis Boyd, is here to ensure your tires are in prime condition for every journey. From tire inspections to repairs and replacements, we offer trusted service with a commitment to quality and transparency. Don’t wait for a problem to get worse—bring your vehicle to us for a thorough check-up and let us handle all your tire and automotive needs.
Visit Mangino Automotive & Tire Center today in Trinidad, CO, for reliable tire checks. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities!