Tire Repair
When you encounter hazards like nails, screws, or glass on the road, you hope that it doesn’t mean a new tire. You change the tire to the spare and hope that your tire can be repaired. Repair is possible if:
- There is still life in the tread.
- Your tire is not over 10 years old.
- The tire damage is a puncture that is not too big or in the wrong place.
If your tire is still in good shape except for the puncture, there is a good chance that it can be repaired.
Tire Replacement
If the damage is too significant, you may need to replace it. How do you know when it is time to replace that tire? Well, here are some guidelines to follow:
- If you can spot three or more tread wear indicators around the tire.
- If tire cord or fabric is showing through the rubber.
- If there are cracks, cuts, or snags in the sidewall that are significant enough to show cord or fabric.
- If the tire has a split or bulge.
- If the damage can’t be repaired correctly due to the age or condition of the tire.
Other Tire Services
Tire repair and replacement are not the only services to be concerned about with your tires. Ideally, you want to keep your tires maintained, so that you don’t run into tire repairs and replacements. Maintenance won’t stop hazards from happening, but with proper maintenance your tires are more likely to be able to be repaired and the life of your tires can be extended. To do that, you need regular maintenance services for your tire like:
- Maintaining proper tire pressure
- Regular tire rotation
- Proper tire balancing
- Proper wheel alignment
- Monitoring tire wear
Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure often to ensure that they are inflated to the recommended specs, which will help prevent flat tires. If your Tire Pressure Monitoring Sensor (TPMS) light is on, heed the warning and check your tire pressure. Proper pressure levels help extend the life of your tires by making sure that they are wearing evenly.
Wheel Alignment, Rotation and Balancing
Keep your tire properly balanced helps keep them wear evenly. Tires should be rotated about every 6,000 miles or twice a year, but a good rule of thumb is to get your tires rotated every time you get an oil change. Check your owner’s manual for recommendations on wheel alignment, but here are a few signs that may help:
- Vehicle drifts to one side on a straight stretch.
- Vehicle pulls to one side when braking.
- Vibrations felt in your steering wheel.
- Steering wheel is off center.
