The tires on your car play a crucial role in your vehicle's handling and braking performance. Always ensuring that your tires are in good condition will drastically increase your safety on the road. When it's time to get new tires for your car, trust your Ford dealer for the best high-quality tires and expert installations performed in a flash by qualified Ford technicians. Below are ways to determine if it's time to replace your old tires with a brand-new set.
Old Tires
Most tire manufacturers suggest replacing your old tires with a new set every six years. This is because structural changes occur over time due to road conditions and extreme temperatures. Old tires will affect handling and braking performance and severely reduce your safety on the road, especially in inclement weather conditions.
If you are unsure of the age of your tires, visit your dealership and ask a Ford technician to check your car's tires to determine if it's time for new ones.
Falling Air Pressure
If you notice that your tires constantly lose pressure, and you frequently have to inflate them, you should replace the tires. Loss of air pressure could indicate a small leak in the tire. The leak could be patched. But it might be better to ask your Ford technician to inspect the tire to make sure that the tire is still safe enough to use.
Worn Tread
When you notice that the tread on the tires is low, it's time to start thinking of replacing the tires. The easiest way to determine if you need new rubber is to perform the old penny test. You have to stick a penny with Lincoln's head pointing down in the grooves.
If you can see the top of the head, the tread is worn, and you need to replace the tires. A tread depth gauge is a handy gadget that will give you a tread depth reading. If the reading is lower than 2.32 inches, you need to get a new set of tires at your dealership as soon as you can.
Visible Wear Indicator Bars
The wear indicator bars show when your tires are worn. The wear indicator bars are raised rubber bars that are barely visible when the tires are new. As the tread of your tires wears down, the wear indicator bars become more visible. When you can see the bars, it's an indication that it's time for a new set of tires.
Uneven Tread Wear
Tires wear down at different rates due to either improper inflation or misalignment. Some parts on your tires might look good, and others could appear worn down. That is why the proper tire pressure and regular tire rotations are vital. It ensures even wear, but your tires will also last longer. You will find the information on the correct tire pressure and rotation intervals in your owner's manual, or you can ask your Ford technician for assistance.
Bubbles and Cracks
If you notice that your tires are damaged and see cracks or bubbles on the tire's sidewall, you will have to replace your car's tires. Bubbles develop when there is a weak spot in the rubber and air gets into the internal layers of the tire.
Cracks form when the tires are old. The rubber dries out, becomes brittle, and cracks start to form. Driving around with damaged tires is dangerous. It could cause blowouts that can lead to you losing control of your car and causing an accident.
Ensure your tires are in good condition with plenty of tread left to ensure excellent handling and braking performance. For a range of quality brand tires, visit DARCARS Ford today. We take your safety and the safety of your passengers seriously.Â