Good quality new tires aren’t cheap. However, there are times when it’s a necessity to buy new tires. Damaged or inappropriate tires can put you at risk of a blowout.
Tire blowouts cause more accidents than people realize - as much as 1 in 15 accidents are believed to be caused by a blowout. At high speeds, a blowout can even be fatal, as it can reduce complete control of the vehicle.
This is why you need to pay attention to your tires and know when to replace them. Below are just a few key instances where you should get new tires.
There are bulges and blisters in your tires
Bulges and blisters can occur in tires when the inner lining is damaged. Going over bumps or debris with overinflated tires is a common cause. Most bulges and blisters cannot be repaired, which means replacement is the only solution.
Bugles and blisters affect the structural integrity of the tire - reducing performance and eventually leading to a blowout. For this reason, you should get them replaced as soon as you notice the damage. Try to avoid driving at speed if you have a bulge, and avoid carrying large loads, as these can increase the risk of a bulge or blister popping.
The sidewall is cracked
Tires can develop cuts and cracks for many different reasons. Many slow punctures caused by minor cuts can be patched up without having to replace the tire. Large sidewall cracks are more commonly caused by age or UV light exposure, and can not be easily fixed. In these cases, replacement is necessary.
Even if air is not escaping from a crack, it may suddenly open up while you are driving and lead to an instant blowout. Never ignore a sidewall crack for this reason.
The tread is severely worn
Over time, the tread on a tire gets worn down. Once the tread is severely reduced, it can affect your vehicle’s grip on the road. It can also leave you more susceptible to a blowout.
Most states in the US require tires to have a minimum legal tread depth of 2/32 of an inch. This can be measured using the penny test. If your tire tread depth does not meet legal standards, you should replace this tire as soon as possible.
Your tires are making an odd noise
A tire replacement could also be necessary if your tires squeal, screech or hum. While such noises can be due to brake problems or wheel misalignment, they are often caused by damage or excessive tread wear.
It’s worth taking your vehicle to a mechanic if you experience any unusual tire noises. They will be able to inspect them for damage and advise you as to whether you need new tires.
Your tires are very old
It’s recommended that you replace tires every 6 years or every 40,000 miles. Tires should never be used for more than 10 years, as by this point the rubber will be starting to break down - regardless of how often you drive.
Consider the last time you changed your tires. If it was a decade ago, you’ll want to get some fresh tires to avoid any risk of a blowout. For those that own classic cars, make sure to consider the fact that you may need specialist tires.
You want to take on rougher terrain
Most road cars are fitted with fairly standard road tires. If you want to start driving over rocky surfaces, thick mud or deep snow, it’s advised that you seek out some specialist tires.
You can find specialist tires such as mud terrain tires online. They will cost you more than standard tires, but could be necessary if you want to maintain grip and reduce damage caused by off-road surfaces. Some cars are fitted with all-terrain tires, which can be used on roads and on many off-road surfaces (there may still be some limitations).
You’re getting involved in motorsports
If you’re racing a car, you may also want to consider replacing the tires. Regular tires aren’t built to withstand the demands of racing. You’re also likely to find that racing tires such as racing slicks drastically improve performance.
As with off-road tires, you can find racing tires online. Make sure to consider the type of motorsport you are partaking in as different tires may be better suited to certain events. These types of tires can vary in price - some are relatively cheap but are not designed to last as long.
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