Tires, the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the ground, and ensures safe and secure journeys. We often come across people who have questions like “How do I know when my tires need replacing?” Well, there is no fixed answer to this question since there are several variables at play that determine the health of your tire. For instance, if the road to your daily route for work is bumpy and badly paved, the tread of your tire can get uneven and eventually you are going to need new tires.
After 4 or 5 years, you must inspect your tires thoroughly to know if they are in good condition. However, you don’t have to be a car expert to inspect your tires. While there is no specific time to change tires there are a few major signs that can indicate whether you need a tire replacement or not.
Examine the tread of the tire
The role of the tread is to diverge the water from the bottom of the tires to maintain traction with the surface. If your tire doesn’t have enough tread, the braking abilities of your car will be bad, and the stopping distance will be longer.
If you require a sudden break due to some obstacle or stopped traffic, it will be harder for you to avoid a collision.
The minimum tread depth that is acceptable in tires varies from country to country. In UAE, it is 1.6mm. However, it is better to replace your tires once the tread reaches a depth of 3mm to avoid any uncertain situation. To find out the tread depth, you can use a tread depth gauge.
Look for uneven tread
Uneven tread is most commonly the result of improper inflation, bad alignment or bumpy road. A tire that has uneven tread has higher chances of blowing out and it can even make it harder for you to steer properly. So, during the inspection, don’t forget to look for uneven tire tread.
Look for cracks on the tire
As the tires move on the surface, it is obvious for the rubber to have some minor cracks. But if there are signs of cords or air leak, you will have to look into it.
Here’s how you examine the tire for cracks:
- Search for cracks between tread blocks, if there are metal or fabric cords, the tire is not safe for driving
- Look at the sidewall of tires to check for large cracks, again minor cracks are fine but if the inner layers are noticeable, you will have to buy new tires
Factors that affect your tires
There are a few important elements that you need to consider when changing your tires.
Age of the tire
Car tyres age is an important indicator when it comes to making a tire replacement decision. Some cars require new tires after 5 7 years, while a few vehicles demand new tires after ten years. Remember that tires start aging after its manufacturing date. An unutilized tire cannot be used after a period of 10 years.
Long Routes and Potholes
If your route is long or you frequently take extensive journeys via car, then the tires are more likely to wear faster than usual. Another thing to consider is the road condition. Let’s say the road you pass through daily to reach your office is covered with potholes or curbs. This will damage your car tires giving them uneven tread wear or making them totally bald.
The climate of your city
If you live in a place that experiences cold weather more frequently, it could be one of the reasons behind the damage of your car as the traction in tires is less when driving in snow. On the other hand, extremely high temperatures are also bad for your tires as the UV rays harm them.
