Replacing Your Tires: How To Tell When It’s Time

How Long Do Tires Last?

Whenever we talk about a tire’s lifespan, there are two perspectives to consider: time and wear. Every new tire since 2000 has a code imprinted on its side called the tire identification number (TIN) or Department of Transportation (DOT) code. This 12-digit code holds useful info, and the last four digits tell us when the tire was made. It’s like a tire’s birthday! For example, if the code ends with “2918,” it means the tire was made on the 29th week of 2018.

Why is this code important? Well – tires typically have a useful life of about 10 years (although experts recommend inspection and replacement closer to six years). As tires get older, they go through a natural “aging” process. The rubber starts to dry out, harden, and even crack, compromising the tire’s grip on the road and the overall structural integrity

Tire wear is just as crucial a factor as time. As tires accumulate mileage, they naturally wear out, resulting in reduced traction, particularly in unfavorable weather conditions. Several factors can contribute to increased tire wear, including:

• Hitting curbs or poor road conditions causes misalignment and suspension damage, affecting tire wear. Schedule regular suspension, alignment, and tire checks.
• Aggressive driving habits such as hard cornering, quick acceleration, and sudden braking increase tire stress, causing rapid wear. Avoid aggressive driving to extend tire life.
• Neglected tire maintenance, including checking for damage, maintaining air pressure levels, and performing alignment and rotation, can significantly reduce tire lifespan. Regular maintenance is essential for tire longevity.

Tread Depth

The simplest way to gauge the health of your tires is by measuring their tread depth. This is done by using a tread depth gauge, a handy tool designed to measure the depth of the tire’s tread grooves accurately. To check the tread depth, place the gauge flat into the main tread grooves and read the measurement.

• If your tire’s tread depth is at 6/32″, they are still good to use, but consider replacement soon, especially for winter tires.
• Tread depth nearing 4/32″ is a clear sign to seriously consider replacing your tires as soon as possible.
• When your tires reach 2/32″ of tread depth, they are considered bald and must be replaced immediately.

Regularly checking and maintaining adequate tread depth is essential for your tires’ performance and your safety on the road.

 

Related Resource:

• How To Inspect Your Tires

Other Signs Of Wear

Aside from the tread of the tires, there are several other critical factors to keep an eye out for to ensure their overall health and performance. Regularly inspecting these aspects will help you catch potential issues early and maintain optimal tire condition:

• Cracking: Check the sidewalls and tread for any visible cracks. Cracking can occur due to age, exposure to sunlight, and other environmental factors. If you notice any cracks, it’s essential to address them promptly, as they can lead to tire failure.
• Uneven Wear: Examine the tread surface for signs of uneven wear. Uneven wear patterns can indicate alignment issues, improper tire inflation, or suspension problems. Properly aligned and inflated tires wear evenly and last longer.
• Punctures and Cuts: Inspect the tire surface for any punctures, cuts, or embedded objects. Small punctures can lead to slow leaks, while larger cuts may compromise the tire’s structural integrity. Address any visible damage or seek professional evaluation.
• Bulges or Blisters: Look for bulges or blisters on the tire’s sidewall, which can indicate internal damage. These weaknesses can potentially lead to a sudden blowout, making it crucial to replace the tire immediately.
• Tire Pressure: Regularly check the tire pressure using a reliable gauge. Proper tire pressure ensures optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and even wear. Refer to the vehicle owner’s manual or the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure.
• Valve Stems: Inspect the valve stems for signs of damage or leaks. Faulty valve stems can lead to gradual air loss and impact tire performance.
• Tire Age: Be aware of the tire’s age, as even with good tread depth, tires can degrade over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires after six to ten years, depending on factors like storage conditions and usage.

Replacement

When replacing your tires, it is critical to continue prioritizing safety and performance. In most cases, it is recommended to replace all four tires with the same application and type. This ensures uniform traction, handling, and stability, contributing to a balanced driving experience. However, there are instances where replacing all four tires may not be necessary. If your existing tires have significant tread life left and match the needs of your vehicle, you might only need to replace the damaged or worn-out tires.

At Integra Tire, our team of experts is dedicated to helping you make the best tire choices. Whether you’re looking for all-season, winter, performance, or specialty tires, we’ll work closely with you to find the perfect fit within your budget. Our goal is to keep you safe on the road while ensuring your vehicle performs at its best.

To explore a wide range of tire options and find the perfect match for your needs, visit our convenient tire selector tool at https://integratire.com/shop-tires. With just a few clicks, you can filter through various tire brands, sizes, and features, making the tire selection process hassle-free. At Integra Tire, we take pride in providing top-notch customer service and delivering quality tires that you can rely on for a smooth and secure ride.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest Integra Tire dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.

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