Are Your Tires Putting You in Danger?
June 15th, 2015 by Eli P
Are Your Tires Putting You in Danger?
When it comes to safe driving, tires are one of the most important parts of your car. Keeping them in good condition will minimize road dangers and provide smooth, comfortable driving… plus well maintained tires helps your MPG!. But tires wear out over time, and a worn or damaged tire can lead to unsafe driving conditions. Here are five warning signs that your tires could be putting you in danger when you get behind the wheel.
1. Improper inflation levels.
Underinflated tires can’t maintain their proper shape, which can lead to skidding, hydroplaning, or even total tire failure. Over inflated tires are stiffer, and can be damaged more easily when encountering potholes or road debris. Either way, it’s a good idea to check the pressure on a regular basis to ensure your tires stay properly inflated.
2. Insufficient tread depth.
Treads are especially important in wet weather because the grooves help channel water away so the tire can maintain contact with the road, thereby reducing the chances of hydroplaning. Even in dry weather, driving on bald tires can result in unsafe driving conditions that put you at risk. A quick way to check if you have sufficient tread is by using “The Penny Test.”
3. Sidewall cracks.
As tires age and become more brittle, they often develop cracks or cuts in the sidewall – a sign that the tire could be losing its structural integrity. Smaller cracks can cause the tire to slowly leak air, leading to under-inflation problems. Larger cracks can cause sudden blowouts.
4. Bulges or blisters.
As the outer surface of a tire begins to weaken over time, it can sometimes develop weak spots called bulges or blisters. These trouble signs can easily lead to a sudden blowout, a very dangerous occurrence at high speed on a busy highway. Have your tires inspected by a professional at the first sign of a bulge or blister.
5. Excessive vibration.
All cars vibrate to some extent while driving. However, excessive vibration could signal a problem with one or more tires, such as uneven tire wear or separated tread. Left unchecked, vibrations can ruin your tires, cause structural damage to your car, and/or put you at risk of an accident.
Neglected tires can create dangerous driving conditions, luckily Fix Auto can rotate your tires and check for any damage your tire maybe be causing on your vehicle. Taking a few moments to check your tires on a regular basis will keep you safer behind the wheel.
