Driving down I-5 in a torrential downpour isn’t the time to wonder when the last time you checked your tires was. As a car-owners it’s important to be aware of your tire tread and know when it’s time for a change.
Good tires help give your car traction and keep you safe in any road condition. Living in the Pacific Northwest, where our weather can turn wet and rainy in an instant, it’s important to make sure you’re good before any problems arrises.
When and How To Check Your Tires
You should be checking your tires monthly. Check your tire pressure with a gauge to make sure they are holding air properly. You owner’s manual should include a section about the appropriate tire pressure for your car’s make and model.
While you’re checking your tire pressure, check for visible signs of compromise, like punctures from a nail or a worn tread. The industry standard for knowing when to replace your tires is when the tread depth is at or less than 1/32 of an inch. An easy way to check your tread is with a quarter. Take a quarter and put it (head first) into one of the grooves of the tread. If you can see space above the head, then it’s time to replace them.
Replacing Your Tires
When it does come time to replace your tires, it’s vital to replace all four, all at once. Though it may seem more beneficial or economical to only replace one or two, putting off replacing all four at once can actually lead to more costs for you. That’s because when you don’t replace all of them at once, your risk your tread wearing unevenly, leading to reduced traction, possible suspension issues, and ultimately limiting the lifespan of your tire. Replacing only a few at once can also lead to higher changes for you to hydroplane.
When you’re ready to replace your tires, Courtesy Auto Repair and Tire in Tacoma has you covered. We have a variety of options to choose from and offer installation.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a handing tool to determine what kind of tire best fits your needs.
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