How firm is the traction of your current tires when you drive over a wet patch of road? If they’re not kept in tip-top condition and replaced in a timely manner, car tires can become a safety hazard, potentially causing a skid or blowing out on the road. Let’s look at six clear indications that a tire is on its last legs. If you notice the following warning signs, head to your local Kia dealership for new tires right away.
Your Tires Are Over Six Years Old
It’s generally recommended that you replace your tires once they reach six years of age. With the amount of strain and wear tires undergo, plus the natural weakening of tire rubber over time, even the highest quality tires become susceptible to damage after six years.
If you’re unsure how old your tires are, check the four-digit number on the sidewall of each tire. The second two digits represent the year in which the tire was manufactured. The first two digits denote the specific week during the year.
You Lose Confidence in Your Traction
Healthy tires should feel absolutely secure when you corner or brake, no matter what kind of road surface you’re driving on. If your car’s traction ever feels diminished, causing you to become more hesitant and nervous while driving, it’s probably time for replacement tires.
Your Tires’ Treads Are Too Shallow
When the tread depth of tires reaches 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for replacements. Tires with treads any shallower than this can no longer reliably grip the road.
When you measure the tread depths of a tire, be sure to measure several points around the circumference of the tire. The shallowest point shouldn’t be under 2/32 of an inch.
Your Tires Are Excessively Uneven
If you notice your tires have become slightly uneven, you may be able to correct the unevenness by rotating them. But if your tires have become excessively uneven, your handling will be reduced, and you’re more likely to suffer a skid or blowout on the road. You may need to replace all four tires.
You Have an Irreparable Puncture
Many punctures can be repaired, especially when the puncture occurs in the thick tread section of the tire. But awkwardly placed punctures in the tire’s shoulder or sidewall, or any area that flexes too much, often means the tire has to go.
Visit Mike Kelly Kia today to have your tires replaced or repaired. Our full-service dealership has been serving the Kia drivers of Butler and the surrounding area with top-notch cars and customer service for 18 years.
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