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There are several compelling reasons to consider replacing automobile tires, crucial for maintaining optimal vehicle performance and ensuring safety on the road. Firstly, tread wear is a primary factor necessitating replacement, as diminished tread depth compromises traction, especially in adverse weather conditions. Worn-out tires also pose a higher risk of hydroplaning, reducing a vehicle’s ability to navigate wet surfaces effectively. Additionally, the aging process can lead to rubber degradation, making tires more susceptible to blowouts and punctures. Regularly replacing tires helps maintain proper tire inflation, enhancing fuel efficiency and overall handling. Lastly, advancements in tire technology continually introduce improvements in tread design, rubber compounds, and overall durability, offering drivers the opportunity to upgrade to safer and more efficient options. Whether prompted by wear and tear, age, or the desire for improved performance, timely tire replacement is essential for a safer and smoother driving experience.
Tread wear is the first and most obvious condition looked at when considering tire replacement. Most tire manufacturers state that a tire needs replaced at 2/32nd of tread depth. While this works for almost half of the United States, cold weather states may have a tread law in effect during winter months. The tread law states that if you are driving on snow-packed and icy roads, you’re in an accident, and your tire tread is less than a certain specification, you will receive a ticket or fine. It is my understanding that the minimum tread depth, during winter months, is around 4/32nd. If you have purchased a set of tires, the tire manufacturer will warranty some tires against wear out for a certain amount of miles based on tires wearing all the way down to 2/32nd. It is important to know that as tire technology keeps evolving, and performance requirements increase, the number of tires with mileage warranties decreases. Most truck and SUV tires do not carry a mileage warranty as they once may have.
The age of a tire is getting more widespread across the automotive industry. Not everyone will put 50 or 60 thousand files on a set of tires within 5 to 7 years. If you have ever seen a tire with plenty of tread but is cracking or dry rotting, you’ll understand why age is such an issue. From research, most tire manufacturers have a position statement on this issue and suggest tires get replaced after 10 years from the manufacturer date. Since 2000 all tires have to be marked with the week (in a year) and year the tire was produced. Across the automotive industry, there are differences in when tires should be replaced due to age. I have seen shops use the 7-year time frame and I have also seen shops say “As long as it isn’t cracking, you’re fine”. One would think that the automobile manufacturers would help decipher this topic, however, they don’t manufacture tires. In fact, when an auto manufacturer builds a vehicle, they send a set of specifications to the chosen tire company without regard to tread or tire life, only how they want that tire to perform with the suspension of the vehicle.
When choosing a set of tires, I can’t put enough emphasis on getting the correct performing tire for the vehicle and the owner’s driving habits. The very first question any tire sales professional should ask is “What kind of driving do you do?”. Highway driving, in-town driving, off-road driving, mountain driving, and harsh weather driving all have different performance requirements from tires. You wouldn’t put a set of snow-rated all-season tires on a vehicle that primarily drives on the highways of Phoenix, AZ. Second is the performance or speed rating designated by the automobile manufacturer. The speed rating is not to signify the maximum speed a tire will handle. More importantly, it signifies how the tire construction will react with the suspension of the vehicle. Years ago I did a ride-and-drive sponsored by one of the big tire manufacturers. They had 4 BMW 328i’s all with different speed-rated tires. Only one car had the correct tires. The differences felt were staggering. When driving thru the road course we experienced dry and wet roads. 3 of the cars would spin out and go off-road at different places on the course without fail.
Getting the correct tire that performs properly and is safest for the vehicle can seem overwhelming. However, the safety of you and your family depends on it. Be wary of any advisor that says “Your tires are shot, here is how much replacement costs…”. Make sure the people selling you tires ask all the right questions. Make sure your advisor finds out what is important to you. Your vehicle is your freedom and tires play a huge role in your safety.