Tires are an important part of your car. Think about it. They are what come in contact with the road while you drive...I know, that is obvious you say.
Well, that may be, but have you really taken the time to make sure that your tires are safe? What happens if the tread is not sufficient and you are driving on wet roadways?
Here are a few tips for tire safety:
- Check tread depth - 2/32 is the absolute minimum by law (see tip to follow this list)
- Check for bulges on the sidewall - this may indicate a problem with the tires internal structure
- Check for flat spots on the edges of the tread pattern (cupping)
- If you see wire mesh or threads anyplace on your tire, replace it immediately
These tips are some guidelines for things that are obvious clues of your car crying for new tires. It is your safety at stake. Along with the signs of wear, you must consider the type of terrain that you are driving on. Are your tires suited for snowy conditions, how about constantly very hot asphalt? If you do not know what type of tire to purchase, ask a professional, they will be glad to direct you.
Your tire buying decision will sometimes be affected by other influences, such as appearance (for your hot sports car) or perhaps the latest technology you have read about such as run flat tires.
Here is a handy tip for checking tread depth: Take a penny and insert it into your tread pattern (in several places) with Abraham Lincoln's head in first. If you can see the top of Abe's head, you don't have enough tread!
