According to the National Centre for Statistics and Analysis, 26.2% of car crashes involve vehicles with bad tires meaning they have an insufficient tread of 1/16th inch or less. Even if the road is dry and well-maintained, driving with bad tires is like inviting an accident to happen. How much more if the road is wet and slippery?
It is essential to know how to check your tires before driving to ensure safety and fuel efficiency. Damages to the tires do not always require an immediate replacement but it is very important to have it checked by a professional.
Punctures and cuts on the tires
The most common types of damages to tires are punctures due to sharp objects on the roads. If the puncture is deep enough, the tire will lose air pressure quickly. If a nail or screw is embedded on the tread, the tire will continuously lose pressure. Cuts can also result from sharp objects like stones and broken glass. Before you drive the car, check the tires for cuts and punctures and make sure that the spare tire is fully inflated.
Worn out treads
According to Michelin, tire change is recommended when the tire tread’s depth reaches 1.6mm. In the case of Michelin tires, there are tread wear indicators at the base of the groove. For other tire brands, bring the tire to a specialist.
You should also check the tires for one-sided wear due to axle geometry. When the height of the car is lowered, low-profile tires can be mounted; however, it will affect wheel alignment. During driving, the modified suspension arms can deviate the alignment of the wheels from their specified position. This may result in an increase in uneven tread wear. You are likely unaware of the problem because wheel alignment values are still within the tolerance limits if measured in the static position on an axle measurement bench. This can be fixed by aligning the wheels.
Damaged sidewall
The tire sidewall is not always perfect; there are usually dimples and indentations that require a more detailed inspection. If the indentations are harmless, they are not detrimental to driving. If the sidewalls are damaged, you might hit curbs when driving. The damages will also affect tire pressure and fuel efficiency.
End of usable life
In spite of the lack of visible damage, it is important to know when the tire’s lifespan is up. According to Michelin, tires must be replaced 10 years after the date it was manufactured. Always choose the correct tire size and type based on the tire specifications on the user’s manual. Replacing an old tire with a new one is not only safer; it will allow you to enjoy a smoother and more efficient driving experience.
If you are planning to replace your old tires with new ones, make sure to buy from trusted brands. The tires are guaranteed new and free from any defects. There are also awe-inspiring designs to choose from if you want to set your vehicle apart from the rest. Great looks are matched with superb performance.
