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When is it time to replace your tires? Some people simply run their fingers across the tread and make an educated guess. Others wait until they are told by a friend or their service technician. And then there are the unfortunate drivers who make that decision as they wait for a tow-truck because they slid off the road. It’s better to be educated and keep conscious of your tire’s age. Buying new tires is a great investment in your safety and the life of your vehicle.

Here are some answers to common questions you may have about when and how to buy new tires, courtesy of Goodyear®.

WHEN IS IT TIME TO LOOK?

For the most enjoyable driving experience it’s important to replace worn tires. Optimum traction helps provide responsive handling for a smooth, reliable ride. To determine when you should start shopping, follow these simple steps.

Test the tread. Pinch a penny between your thumb and forefinger, so that the top of Lincoln’s head is showing. Place the top of Lincoln’s head into one of the tire tread grooves – try to measure in the deepest point within the tread. If any part of Lincoln’s head is obscured by the tread, your tires have enough tread. However, if you can see above the head, you’re ready for a new tire.

You should always check your tires in several tread locations. Be sure to check the inner, outer, and middle grooves of each tire, as tires can wear differently on each side, due to improper wheel alignment and/or low inflation.

WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER?

Look for tires that excel in tests for braking, handling. Let treadwear, ride comfort, noise, and rolling resistance help narrow your choices. Choosing a vehicle tire depends on where you live, weather and terrain issues, what performance expectations you have, and what your vehicle requires.

ALL SEASON VS WINTER. WHICH TO CHOOSE?

The key to good traction is friction, but this can be elusive depending on the weather. Winter tires are designed to stay soft and pliable at low temperatures, so they will deform and re-conform to all the micro irregularities of the icy surface, resulting in grip. All-season tires are designed to help provide traction in wet and snowy conditions. Their reinforced sidewalls keep the tire shoulders on the road, while microgrooves help provide biting edges that lock together, enabling better grip when turning on wet roads.

Source: Goodyear®

Now that you are aware of what to look for and consider when making the decision to invest in new tires, take a look for yourself and let us know if it’s time. We have a giant selection of quality and affordable new tires, and our experienced and caring technicians are here to help. Stop in today and we’ll get you back on the road with new tires.