Replacing tires is an inevitable part of vehicle ownership. 

Roughly 9 percent of vehicle crashes are tire-related. So despite the added expense, most drivers feel better knowing their tires are in good working condition. 

But how do you know if it’s time to replace your tires? 

This guide will share some tips to help you determine if your tires are safe for the road. Read on for 5 signs that it might be time to replace your tires.

1. Your Tires Failed the Penny Test

If you’re looking for a way to check your tires at home, try the penny test.

Set a penny in the tread groove with the head of the coin facing down. You should not be able to see the head of the coin. If you can see the top of the head, it may be time to replace your tires.

Failing the penny test is a sign that the treads on your tires have worn out.

2. You Feel Like Your Car Is Shaking and Vibrating

Several things can cause a car to vibrate but, if you feel like your car is vibrating all the time, it is time to check your tires.

Shaking and vibrations may show that your car needs tire balancing. Or it could mean that your tires have lost traction. 

If you find your car is vibrating, book an appointment with a mechanic.

3. Tire Pressure Light Says It’s Time to Replace Your Tires

If the tire pressure light on your dashboard alerts you often, it may be time for a tire replacement.

Manually check your tires to see if you need tire repairs. Or get a mechanic to check the tires for you.

4. You Are Experiencing Poor Traction

If your tires are functioning at maximum capacity, the tread groves should work to wick the water away as you drive. If you find your tires are no longer repelling water the way they should, you have probably started to lose traction.

If you notice your car is suddenly swerving or sliding more when you drive, it might be time to replace your tires. 

You should never be able to see the cords of a tire. If you can see cords in an area of your tires, it means the tread has disappeared and therefore, there is no traction in that area. If this is the case, your car is no longer safe to drive and you will need urgent tire repairs.

5. Your Tires Are More Than a Decade Old

Most manufacturers recommend replacing your tires at least once every ten years. Some manufacturers say a tire replacement should happen even earlier than that. 

Several factors impact the well-being of a vehicle’s tires—living in a climate with extreme weather conditions for example. 

If you haven’t experienced any of the early signs listed in this tire guide, but your tires are a decade old, you should book an appointment with a mechanic.

Know When It’s Time to Change Your Tires

Ensuring your tires are in good working condition is one of the safest precautions you can take as a driver. 

By paying attention to the 5 early warning signs listed in this guide, you will be able to determine when it’s time to replace your tires. 

If you suspect it might be time for a tire replacement, we can help. Contact us today to book an appointment for your tires.

There’s nothing like taking a drive on the first warm day of the season. As the colder weather finally subsides, you may find yourself rolling down your car windows and cranking up your favorite summer playlist.

Summer is a great time for road trips. 85 percent of travelers planned to drive to their destination in 2021.

But before you hit the open roads this year, make sure your car is adequately prepared for the warm weather. 

This car guide will share tips on how to properly prepare your vehicle for the warmer months. By taking these steps, you will ensure your road trips are uninterrupted, so you can make the most out of the warm weather, without having to worry about the state of your car.

Test Your Air Conditioner

It’s likely been months since you last turned on your car’s air conditioner. If it’s malfunctioning, it’s better to find out before the warm weather comes. There’s nothing worse than realizing your air conditioner is broken when you need it most.

Test the unit at the start of Spring. This will give you lots of time to fix it if it’s not functioning properly. 

If your air conditioner has stopped working, you may need to check the refrigerant or replace your air filters. 

A Car Guide to Checking Your Fluids

If you’ve been using your windshield wipers to clear snow and ice from your car all winter, it might be time to replace the blades. Blades wear down throughout the winter. 

It’s also a great time to refill your wiper fluid, as you will need fluid during rainstorms. You will also rely on your wipers to clear pests and bugs that hit your windows at night.

Drivers should also check the temperature gauge on the car’s dashboard. Check for leaks and add coolant if you need to. This will help prevent your car from overheating.

Book an Appointment at the Auto Shop

Summer is a great opportunity to book your annual service if you haven’t already done so. The right car preparation will reduce the chances of you getting stranded on the side of the road.

The dramatic temperature change can cause your tire pressure to change. Have an auto store or mechanic check your tire pressure. You should also get your tires changed to new tires or all-season tires as they will provide better traction in the warmer months.

While you’re there, have the auto shop test your battery. Heat can harm batteries, so it is important to ensure your car’s battery is in working order.

Get a Car Wash

Make sure you visit the car wash to rid your vehicle of salt and grime that has built up over the winter. This will help protect your paint and the undercarriage of your vehicle. It will eliminate the potential for rust.

Following the steps in this car guide will also mean that your car is sparkling and new before you hit the road with family and friends. 

Enjoy the Warmer Drives

Before you hit the road to enjoy the warmer months, make sure your car is ready. 

By following the advice in this car guide, your car will be ready to face the summer elements. So you can focus on having fun in the sun, without dealing with vehicle trouble. 

Book a service appointment with us today, and let’s make sure your car is ready for the warm weather.