Drivers place many demands on their tires on a daily basis. Over time, the tires experience aging and wear. Not only does the deterioration makes tires less visually attractive, but it also compromises their safety. Check out these signs that you’re headed for tire trouble.
Worn Treads
Tire treads are the raised and grooved pattern that comes in contact with the road when the vehicle’s in motion. Because the treads see so much action, they eventually wear down. With wear, treads become less effective at gripping the road. Worn treads can also compromise handling and create more rolling resistance. The best way to handle worn treads is to replace your tires. If tread wear is uneven, the dealership may simply advise you to rotate your tires. But if you have excessive wear, replacement is the only option.
If you fail to replace tires that have worn treads, you put your safety at risk. Driving on slick, wet roads becomes extra treacherous if your tires’ treads are compromised. You may also see less fuel efficiency.
Cracked Sidewalls
Though the sidewalls don’t touch the road, they still can have nicks and small tears that lead to cracks. Ideally, you should get the tire replaced when it has sidewall damage. Your mechanic may also recommend having your wheels realigned as a part of the process. If you don’t address this problem, you face a higher risk of your tire blowing out and causing you to have a wreck.
Tire damage and wear are not problems you can ignore. Until you replace your tires, you’re gambling with your life and your car.
Image via Flickr by echoforsberg
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