If you’re wondering, “When do I need new tires?”, we have answers to your questions and concerns. Perhaps you’ve had a flat or experienced another specific tire issue, and you’re thinking it may be time for new tires, but you’re not sure. Maybe you ran over a nail. Do you need a tire repair or to replace your tire? What about a wheel alignment? You’ve seen advertisements and heard commercials for wheel alignments, but when is it truly necessary? As a non-mechanic, how do you know? Well, we can point you in the right direction, right now, and give you honest advice for tire care when you come to our shop.
The Penny Test
Did you know you can determine the condition of your tires for as low as one cent? Most commonly known as the penny test, you can test your tire’s tread by inserting your penny into various grooves along the tread. If the top of Lincoln’s head is showing when you put the penny in, that means that tread is low and your tires are unsafe. At this point you’ll want to seriously consider replacing your tires. On the other hand, if you can’t see Lincoln’s head, that means you have about 2/32 of an inch remaining before you need to think about getting new tires.
The Penny Experiment
Popularly known as the penny test, testing your tires treads will cost you a small amount of one penny. And the best part is that you get to keep the penny after! You’ll insert the penny into a tread groove and repeat this process for several tread grooves. The way that you know the tire tread are worn and unsafe is if the top of Lincoln’s head is showing. In this scenario, you will want to replace your tires as soon as possible. However, if part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the tread each time, then you have about 2/32 of an inch remaining and don’t need new tires as urgently.
Other Factors
If you have questions about new tires, tire repair, or whether you need a wheel alignment, please call our auto repair shop. Our tire techs are extremely knowledgeable when it comes to making new tire recommendations and handling tire repairs. For wheel alignments, we use state-of-the-art equipment and strictly adhere to your vehicle manufacturer’s alignment specifications. You can trust us to do right by you and your tires.