How Often Should You Change Your Tires?
It may seem like it was only a short while back that you purchased new tires for your vehicle. But now you find yourself visiting your auto shop fairly frequently for urgent tire repair. You may be facing the fact that you are due for new tires. You also know that new tires will give you a smoother ride, plus enhance the safety of your vehicle.
But, just how often should you change your tires? Will they last a bit longer, you wonder? Do you know what kind of tire to put on your vehicle? The first thing to do is to read your vehicle owner’s manual. It will state the specific size and tread type recommended for your vehicle. Or, ask the tire repair technician at your auto shop to help you choose the right tire for your vehicle.
So how often should you change your tires? There are two easy ways in which you can determine if it is time for new tires:
- The penny test – Insert a U.S. penny into a tire’s tread. Because tire tread wears unevenly, test several spots about 15 inches apart. If Lincoln’s head is visible in most of the spots, it’s time for new tires.
- Wear Bars – Built-in “wear bars” on tires should not be visible. If the wear bar is flush with the outside of the tread, it’s time for new tires.
Here are a few tips to consider when purchasing new tires:
- Correct wheel size. This information can be found in your owner’s manual and on the information placard on the driver’s door frame.
- Buy a matching set. This will provide equal service and a greater level of safety.
- Check the spare. Make sure the spare tire is still in good shape and that it matches the other tires.
- Correct alignment and balancing. When having new tires installed, always make sure they are both aligned and balanced. This helps prevent uneven tread wear and increases your driving safety.
- Break-in new tires gently. This will ensure they begin to wear properly and that your alignment and suspension are in good condition.
Looking for quality tire repair? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about how often should you change your tires and schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
It may seem like it was only a short while back that you purchased new tires for your vehicle. But now you find yourself visiting your auto shop fairly frequently for urgent tire repair. You may be facing the fact that you are due for new tires. You also know that new tires will give you a smoother ride, plus enhance the safety of your vehicle.
But, just how often should you change your tires? Will they last a bit longer, you wonder? Do you know what kind of tire to put on your vehicle? The first thing to do is to read your vehicle owner’s manual. It will state the specific size and tread type recommended for your vehicle. Or, ask the tire repair technician at your auto shop to help you choose the right tire for your vehicle.
So how often should you change your tires? There are two easy ways in which you can determine if it is time for new tires:
- The penny test – Insert a U.S. penny into a tire’s tread. Because tire tread wears unevenly, test several spots about 15 inches apart. If Lincoln’s head is visible in most of the spots, it’s time for new tires.
- Wear Bars – Built-in “wear bars” on tires should not be visible. If the wear bar is flush with the outside of the tread, it’s time for new tires.
Here are a few tips to consider when purchasing new tires:
- Correct wheel size. This information can be found in your owner’s manual and on the information placard on the driver’s door frame.
- Buy a matching set. This will provide equal service and a greater level of safety.
- Check the spare. Make sure the spare tire is still in good shape and that it matches the other tires.
- Correct alignment and balancing. When having new tires installed, always make sure they are both aligned and balanced. This helps prevent uneven tread wear and increases your driving safety.
- Break-in new tires gently. This will ensure they begin to wear properly and that your alignment and suspension are in good condition.
Looking for quality tire repair? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about how often should you change your tires and schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
