How will you know it’s time to replace your tires? Most people are aware tires need to be
replaced when there’s little to no tread left, noticing less traction on wet roads or in snow,
however, if you notice strange noises, vibrations or unusual wear on the tires, it could be an indication that the time has come to replace the tires on your vehicle. Read on for some telltale signs that it’s time for new tires.
Expiration of Tire Rubber Materials
The rubber material in tires starts to break down over
time, with the life of a tire lasting roughly six years. Tires come with a DOT stamp located on the sidewall, which reveals the age of the tire. The last four digits of the stamp indicate the week and year the tire was manufactured. For example, if you were to see a DOT ending with “1225” that lets you know the tire was manufactured the twelfth week of 2025. As the tire starts to age the rubber compound becomes more brittle, leading to reduced traction and even scarier, can increase the risk of having a blowout. Understanding how to interpret the DOT stamp on tires becomes even more important if you decide to purchase used tires, as they could be nearing the end or even worse, be past its lifespan and could compromise your safety.
Tire Making Noises
It would be a good idea to have a professional inspect your tires if at any point you notice a constant noise while driving. They would be able to identify and address any underlying causes. If you become aware of any peculiar noises coming from the tires it could be due to uneven wear, alignment issues, or a damaged tire. Wheels that have become angled typically lead to tires wearing unevenly. Any unusual noises can also be the result of improper tire inflation or suspension issues, which may cause a driver to notice humming, roaring, or even a thumping noise while driving.
Tire Causes a Vibration
Another indication of a possible tire-related issue is noticing a
vibration while driving. Tires that have uneven wear patterns, are out of balance, and/or out of alignment are typical culprits that can cause a vibration. If the vibration intensifies at higher speed, is noticed and you continue to drive, you can jeopardize the vehicle’s stability, safety, and comfort, causing damage to the car’s suspension components.
Uneven Tire Wear
Tires contain steel belts and fabric cords that provide strength and support.
Uneven wear and bald spots can lead to the materials used to construct a tire to become visible. The causes can range from improper tire inflation, suspension issues and wheels that are not properly aligned. Regular inspections of your tires are important.Checking for irregular wear often will help maintain the vehicle’s performance and safety. As with most things, time is of the essence. Correcting any issues causing uneven wear promptly can help extend the life of the tire and stave off costly repairs. Bulges in Your Tire: A bubble/bulge in a tires sidewall is actually a sign that air has escaped from the inner layer to the outermost surface of the tire. A bulge indicates damage that is not repairable and signals the tire has suffered internal damage. A bulge is typically the result of an impact with potholes, running up onto the curb when parking or other road hazards. Because a
bulge weakens the structural integrity of the tire and increases the risk of a blow out, it is
imperative to have the tire checked out by a professional technician if and bulges or bubbles are noticed. Continuing to drive on a compromised tire can lead to loss of control and possible accidents.
Tires, Auto Repair, and more at Scott’s U-Save!
If you find yourself noticing anything unusual going on with your tires don’t hesitate to reach out to tire expert. Catching any of these signs of tire issues can help you recognize when it’s time for some new tires and continue to ensure your safety on the road.
Whether it’s time for new tires or your car is due for service, you can count on Scott’s U-Save. Our family owned business has locations in Steger and New Lenox Illinois, as well as Schererville and Crown Point Indiana. Call or schedule today!