Your tires are a critical safety feature on your vehicle, so it's important to ensure they are in good condition. Worn tires can impact performance, handling, braking distance and fuel efficiency. As a driver, it's essential to know the common signs that your tires need to be replaced.
Check Your Tire Tread Depth
One of the easiest ways to assess your tires is to check the depth of the tread. If you frequently drive on the roads in Westfield, your tires may wear faster due to the stop-and-go traffic and frequent braking. Using a tire tread depth gauge, measure the grooves - most tires start with 10/32-inches to 12/32-inches of tread, and it's generally recommended to replace them when they reach 4/32-inches.
Look for Signs of Damage or Uneven Wear
Inspect your tires for any punctures, cuts, bulges, or blisters on the sidewalls. These could indicate damage from potholes, curbs, or debris on the roads around Holyoke that may cause a tire to fail. Also, check that the tires are wearing evenly across the width of the tread. Uneven wear may be a sign that your tires are out of balance or alignment, or that you need a tire rotation.
Consider the Age of Your Tires
Even if your tires look okay, you should generally replace them after six to ten years, regardless of tread depth. Rubber compounds in tires degrade over time, which can lead to cracking and a greater risk of a blowout. This is especially important if you often drive longer distances to areas like Amherst. You can check the age of your tires by looking at the DOT number on the sidewall - the last four digits indicate the week and year the tire was made.
Schedule a Tire Inspection
If you're unsure about the condition of your tires, the best thing to do is have them inspected by a professional. The service center at Ford of Northampton has certified technicians who can evaluate your tires and let you know if it's time for a replacement. It's a good idea to have your tires checked at the start of each season as the weather and road conditions change in Northampton.
Maintain Your Tires for a Safer Ride
Staying on top of tire maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road. If it's been a while since you replaced your tires, or if you spot any of the warning signs, don't put it off - make an appointment at your local service center to get new, high-quality tires fitted to your vehicle. You'll gain peace of mind and a smoother, safer, more fuel-efficient ride.