Your tires play a huge role in keeping you safe while driving. How much tread your tires have can be the difference between and near miss and a collision, as tires with low tread can make you take longer to stop when you hit the brakes. Knowing when to head to the Chevy dealership for new tires helps keep you and your family safe.
1. Low Tire Pressure
Losing pressure in your tires over time is normal, and you should top up the air in them as needed. However, rapidly losing pressure can indicate a leak. The tire itself could be punctured, or there could be something wrong with the valve. If you’re experiencing punctures or valve problems regularly, then it could be a sign that your tires aren’t as tough as they used to be and should be replaced.
2. Visible Tread Wear Indicators
High-quality tires, like the ones you buy from your dealer, have tread wear indicators built in. These become visible when the tread gets too low. If you have three or more indicators visible, then you need to head to the dealer and get your tires replaced.
3. Low Tread Depth
It’s good practice to regularly check your tread depth. You can use a tread depth gauge or a regular old American penny for this. If you’re using a penny, then you need to place it into the tread upside down. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head above the tread, then your tire tread depth is too low.
4. Visible Cord
You shouldn’t see more than the surface rubber of your tires. If any tire cord is visible anywhere on a tire, then you need to get your tires replaced. The tire cord usually looks like steel wiring, and it’s different from the tire tread wear indicator.
5. Bulges and Cracks
There should be no bulging on the tire’s sidewall or the areas with tread. You should also look out for cracks, which also shouldn’t be on your tires. Cracking or bulging means your tires are getting old and starting to thin out, making it harder for them to support the weight of your vehicle. This can put you and all the other motorists around you in danger.
6. They’re Old
Even if your tires look fine, it’s a good idea to change them out if it’s been a while since you last replaced them. Aim to change your tires at least once every six years. Some people need to replace their tires more often based on several factors, so seek advice from the dealer regarding when you should get yours replaced.
Come and get your tires replaced at any time at Heidebreicht Chevrolet. Make sure you also stop by our service center regularly for tire rotations and other maintenance that’ll help your Chevy perform better for longer.
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