If you're like most drivers, you probably don't think about your tires until they start to go flat. But did you know that tires have a limited lifespan and that it's important to replace them before they wear out? Tires need to be in good condition to operate your car safely. This guide will discuss how long tires last and when you should replace them by a professional tire shop in Glenpool.
So, Do Tires Have an Expiration Date?
The answer is sort of. Tire manufacturers typically put a treadwear warranty on their tires. This means that the tire will have a certain amount of miles to be driven before needing to be replaced. However, this doesn't mean that the tire can't be used after that point. It just means that the tire may not have the same level of performance or safety.
Treadwear warranties typically range from 40,000 to 80,000 miles. But, it's essential to keep in mind that this is only an estimate. The actual lifespan of your tires will depend on several factors, including:
How and where you drive
The type of car you have
The type of tires you have
The inflation pressure of your tires
The weight of your car
Your driving habits
The ideal strategy to keep your tires safe is to maintain them correctly. Here are some tire basics and maintenance recommendations
Tread
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a tire is deemed hazardous and should be replaced when its tread has been worn down to 2/32 of an inch. Tread-depth indicators are included on many tires to allow you to assess the tread depth and indicate when a tire is worn down to replacement level. It will start making a rumbling noise when your car is moving and also helps to alert the driver in slippery conditions.
Pressure
It's crucial to maintain the recommended pressure in your tires. Inflating or underinflating your tires can decrease their lifespan and create unsafe driving conditions. Instead, the pressure should be set at the manufacturer's recommended level, typically inscribed on the vehicle door jamb or in the owner's handbook.
One easy way to check tire pressure is to use a tire pressure gauge. The best will be to get the tires inspected by experts at the Glenpool auto repair shop.
Balance and Alignment
Tires must be round, and the tire/wheel assembly must be balanced. Garages use a balance machine to check for any imbalances in a vehicle's wheels. The wheel is then "weighted" to correct the problem if an imbalance is found. Unbalanced tires can lead to excessive wear on the tread and premature failure of the tire. In addition, improper alignment of your vehicle's wheels will cause undue wear on your tires.
You need to have your tires balanced and aligned if your car pulls to one side when you're driving. You can also have a professional at the Glenpool tire shop perform a "tire balancing test" to see if your tires need correction.
How Often Should You Replace Your Tires?
Usually, tires should be replaced every six years, regardless of the number of miles driven. This is because the rubber in tires deteriorates over time, even if they haven't been used. The 6-year rule is a general guideline, but it's always a good idea to check your tires regularly for any marks of wear and tear.
If you stay in an area with severe weather conditions, such as snow and ice, it's good to replace your tires more often (every 3-4 years). Severe weather can cause accelerated wear and tear on your tires.
It is the best idea to keep an eye on the inflation levels of your tires and the tread depth. If you notice that either of these is starting to deteriorate, it's time to replace your tires.
Final Verdict
Maintaining your tires is vital for keeping your car safe and prolonging its lifespan. Make sure to check the tread depth, pressure, balance, and alignment regularly. Usually, tires should be replaced every six years, but this may vary depending on your driving conditions. If you observe that your tires are starting to wear down, it's time for a new set!
If you need a tire replacement in Glenpool, Same Day Auto Repair is here to help! They offer an array of tires from top brands and auto repair services to keep your car running smoothly. So give us a call today!
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