Guide for Knowing When to Buy New Tires
No one wants to be seen driving on bald tires, as they are both unsightly and incredibly hazardous as they offer minimal traction. But for inexperienced drivers, it can be a challenge to tell when you need to replace your aging tires, as each vehicle will see a different amount of wear depending on driving tendencies, conditions, and frequency of use. Thankfully, there are a handful of procedures that can tell you when your tires need to be substituted.
Tire Tread Wear Tests
● Penny Test - This is the quintessential test for measuring the tread depth using good old Abe Lincoln’s noggin. It is relatively simple to conduct, as you just rotate the penny so that the top of Lincoln’s head goes into the tread. If you can see his hairline, then it is likely time to replace your tires.
● Depth Gauge - Tread depth gauges are sold at the majority of auto parts stores, and come with a clear list of instructions for how much of the groove depth they recommend.
● Indicator Bars - Different types of tires come with their own indications. Check your tire to see if there is a wear bar located inside them, as this will clearly communicate the point at which your tire wear has reached its peak.
If you would like professional assistance with checking your tires, then come to the service department at Hawk Chevy in Joliet. Our technicians can perform a wheel alignment, check your tire pressure, and let you know if it is time to buy new tires. Our parts department will even be able to offer you a fair price on new tires, should you need to switch out your current set.
● Depth Gauge - Tread depth gauges are sold at the majority of auto parts stores, and come with a clear list of instructions for how much of the groove depth they recommend.
● Indicator Bars - Different types of tires come with their own indications. Check your tire to see if there is a wear bar located inside them, as this will clearly communicate the point at which your tire wear has reached its peak.
If you would like professional assistance with checking your tires, then come to the service department at Hawk Chevy in Joliet. Our technicians can perform a wheel alignment, check your tire pressure, and let you know if it is time to buy new tires. Our parts department will even be able to offer you a fair price on new tires, should you need to switch out your current set.