The Warmest Season of the Year is Almost here! Have you Checked your Summer Tires?

However you look at it, a large factor in how smoothly your vehicle drives is the tires. Whether it's a Mini, a Maserati, or a Ram 1500, the physics at work are the same, tires are a critical component that should never be overlooked. 

Being that tire swap season is upon us, we're sharing some tips on what to look for to make sure your summer or all-season tires are in optimal condition for all of those upcoming summer road trips. 

CHECK THEN DOUBLE-CHECK YOUR TIRES' TREAD 

It should go without saying that the effectiveness of a tire decreases with the increase in wear. In terms of a tire's tread, how low is too low?  Holding a quarter between your thumb and forefinger—with the head of the queen or king facing down—and inserting it between the tire grooves will allow you to gauge the degree of wear. You should start looking for new tires if the top of the caribou's nose or the crown of the queen's head is exposed.

On wet surfaces, worn tires are especially dangerous since they greatly increase the chances of hydroplaning.

LOOKS MAY NOT ALWAYS BE DECEIVING

Visually inspecting a tire is even easier when it hasn't been mounted on your vehicle, and there's no need to pull out a microscope to do so. Be on the lookout for any cuts, dings, or unusual wear on the sidewalls as well as the tread surface of the tires. Once the tires are mounted and inflated, check the sidewalls for any obvious bumps that could indicate a damaged tire and an impending flat!

HOW OLD ARE YOUR TIRES?

Even though a tire may not have much "mileage", the rubber still ages with time. This has an effect on a tire's performance and usability, which noticeably declines five years after its date of production. It is best to discontinue the use of a tire if ten years have passed since its manufactured date. 

In need of new Summer Tires? We got your back. Give us a call today.