If you want to keep your family and others safe on the road, it is vital to ensure that your tires are kept in tip-top condition. Simply performing visual checks is not enough, and you could suffer from a dangerous blowout if your tires are not up to scratch. Are you wondering if it’s time to visit your local Toyota dealer to get new tires? Read on to discover some of the signs to look out for.
Time for New Tires? Visit Your Rochester Toyota Dealer
Check Your Tread
If you are not sure whether or not you need to replace your tires, you can perform a simple test at home to check the depth of your tread. Experts stipulate that your tread (the grooves in your tire) should always be 2/32” deep or deeper. If you drive on wet or icy roads most days, you’ll need tires with double that depth to give you a safe grip on the road and prevent any unfortunate accidents.
This simple, at-home test is called the Penny Test. Push a penny into your tires’ grooves, ensuring that Abraham Lincoln’s head faces downward. If Lincoln’s forehead disappears, your tread is at a safe level, but if the top of his head is sticking out, it’s time to schedule a tire replacement service at your nearest dealer.
Look for Sidewall Cracks or Bulges
If you often drive over rough terrain like bumpy, potholed roads, you must check the sides of your tires for any scratches or hairline cuts. You may also notice that the sides of your tires are bulging. Cracks and swelling in the tires are signs that air could be leaking out, and this could seriously damage your suspension or cause a horrible blowout while you’re driving at unsafe speeds.
Inspect the Wear on Your Tires
The wear and tear on your tires will also tell you if it is time to head to the dealership for some new ones. Getting rid of balding tires will give you better control for a smoother ride. If you notice that your tires are more worn in some areas than others, this could mean that you need to get your tire pressure checked.
Newer tires have been created with built-in “tread wear indicator bars”. Depending on your car, these could be a good option for you. The indicator bars are implanted in the rubber, running in the same direction as the grooves of your tread. If you see the indicator bars poking through, it’s time for a tire change.
It is important to keep your car well-maintained so that it runs efficiently and safely. As we’ve discovered, the longevity of your tires depends on a number of factors. Generally, you should get new ones every 50,000 miles or so. If you need a tire replacement service or any other questions or concerns about your Toyota, get in touch with us at Rochester Toyota. Our friendly team will be happy to assist you.
Connect with us
