5 Signs It’s Time to Change Your Tires

As the only point of connection between your vehicle and the road, tires play an essential role in car safety and performance. Despite their importance, most drivers take tires for granted until there’s a leak or a puncture that requires immediate action.

There’s no consensus on the exact number of miles or years that tires should last. Driving conditions, environment, and a range of other factors determine how long you can go before it’s time to swap out your set. While the general rule is that tires should last between 4-6 years and roughly 50,000 miles, if you notice any of these five signs, it’s time to head to one of the 43 convenient Dobbs Tire & Auto Centers locations.

1. Bulges, Blisters, and Cracks

One of the easiest ways to recognize wear on your tires is by simply looking them over and taking note of things that just don’t look right. For example, if you see any part of your tire protruding irregularly or find a crack in the rubber, you’ll want to visit a shop immediately.

Not only do these signs indicate that you’re in for a rough ride, but they also provide a warning of more serious consequences if nothing is done about it. A bulging or blistering tire is nearing the point of a “blowout,” which puts you and other drivers at risk out on the road.

2. Vibration While Driving

Vibration while driving can be attributed to several faulty components of your vehicle, but your tires are the best place to start. If you notice your steering wheel becoming unsteady at higher speeds, there’s a good chance your tires are either worn out or out of alignment.

The intensity of the vibrations will increase as you continue to drive on your old tires, so if you recognize the problem getting worse it’s likely that your tires need to be replaced as soon as possible.

3. Consult Abe

It’s been more than 150 years since Abraham Lincoln’s death, but he’s still holding up his reputation for honesty. So if you have trouble trusting a tire salesperson when they say it’s time for a new set, Honest Abe will help you get to the truth.

The trick works like this: find a penny and stick it in your current tires’ tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If part of his head disappears into your tread, you can probably hold off on buying new tires for the time being. However, if you can still see the top of his head after putting the penny in your tread, your current set of tires has reached the end of its life.

4. Air Pressure Problems

Nobody likes seeing the “check tire pressure” light illuminated on their dashboard. When it keeps showing up on a regular basis despite your efforts to fill up tires to the recommended PSI, it’s indicative of a lingering issue with the tire that means it’s for a replacement.

Nails, screws, and other sharp objects can puncture tires and cause a steep decline in pressure. In many cases, you can patch the leak and be on your way. If the tire light keeps coming on and you aren’t sure what’s causing it, stop by the nearest Dobbs location and let our expert and certified service technicians look it over before you make a decision.

5. Age

As previously mentioned, several variables impact how long your tires will last. But regardless of your mileage, geographical location, or vehicle type, tires should never stay on your car for more than a decade.

Fortunately, manufacturers make it easy to identify a tire’s age which is especially beneficial to used car buyers. Four numbers indicate the week and year your tire was made. You can find this information on the tire’s sidewall. For example, “0521” informs you that the tire was manufactured in the fifth week of the year 2021.

Why Choose Dobbs for Your New Tires?

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of tire wear discussed in this article, it’s time to come see us. With 43 convenient Dobbs Tire & Auto Center locations, our expert and certified service technicians are here to make sure you’re set up for safe driving at the absolute best price. We will beat any legitimate price from a local store or dealer stocking the same new tire.

To find your next set of tires, get in touch online today, or check our list of locations.