Few drivers realize how much of an impact the condition of their tires has on the quality of their handling, braking, road safety, and overall driving pleasure. When your tires begin to show signs of damage or excessive wear, it’s usually best to have them replaced without delay. Here are a few signs that indicate you should visit your local Ford dealer for new tires today.
Bubbling Sidewalls
If you notice a bubble or blister appearing in the sidewall of a tire, you’ll probably have to replace that tire. Bubbling often indicates air trapped beneath the upper layer of rubber.
When you see a bubble, the inner layers may have become ruptured by an impact, releasing the air to become trapped under the upper layer. Bubbles may also result from a production defect in the tire that also makes the tire unsafe to drive on.
Cracked Tire Rubber
Tires dry out over time as UV rays, chemicals, and fluctuations in temperature take their toll. This gradually weakens the rubber and causes flexibility to decline and cracks to form.
Small cracks that you can barely see are usually no cause for concern. But when the cracks become wider and longer, you should consider replacing the tire.
Consistently Falling Air Pressure
It’s recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month. If you notice the pressure of a tire is consistently falling and you don’t know why, the tire may have a tiny puncture somewhere.
Diminished Tread Depth
Tread depth determines how well the tire grips the road. When a tire’s tread depth falls to 2/32 of an inch, it’s time for a new tire. This minimum tread depth should be larger during winter when the roads are icy and tires need to have better traction.
Unevenly Worn Treads
Various factors can cause individual tires to wear unevenly on each side. Even if there isn’t an underlying problem, car tires tend to wear unevenly over time due to the uneven pressure applied to tires when steering or braking. If you notice uneven tread wear and the problem can’t be fixed by rotating your tires, then it’s safest to get a new set of tires.
Have Your Tires Rotated Often at Your Ford Dealer
It’s generally recommended to have tires rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. This often works out to twice per year, which can coincide nicely with your regular oil changes. Rotating tires will help even out tread wear and keep your tires lasting longer as well.
Visit North County Ford today to have your car’s tires checked and repaired or replaced by experienced professionals. Our goal is to make your car-purchasing or servicing experience simple, enjoyable, and hassle-free.
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