Your tires are the only part of your Toyota that actually touches the road, so they get the most wear and tear of all the parts of your vehicle. Since their condition directly affects your driving experience and safety, keep your eye out for a few key indicators of when you might need to bring your vehicle in to your Toyota dealer to get new tires.
Tread Depth Is Below 1/16th of an Inch
The tread on your tires plays an important role in providing traction, especially in wet conditions. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, when tire tread reaches a tread depth of 1/16th of an inch, it’s time to replace them. An easy way to check this is with the “penny test.” Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace the tires.
Visible Tread Wear Indicator Bars
Newer tires have a handy feature called tread wear indicators. These small raised bars run between the tire treads, and as your tires wear down, these bars become more visible. When they are flush with the tire’s tread, it means the tread depth has reached its safe limit, signaling that a tire change is due.
Cracks or Cuts in the Sidewalls
Inspect the sidewalls of your tires for cracks, cuts, or grooves. These imperfections can be indicative of developing leaks or, worse, a potential blowout. Sidewall damage can occur from driving over potholes, curbs, or debris and is a sure sign that your tires need to be replaced.
Bulges or Blisters on the Tire
Sometimes the outer surface of a tire begins to weaken, leading to a bulge or blister that extends outward from the rest of the surface. This weak spot can cause a sudden blowout. If you notice any of these anomalies on your tires, don’t delay in getting them replaced.
Excessive Vibration
While some vibration is normal, especially on poorly paved roads, excess vibration could indicate a tire problem. It might be a sign of misalignment, imbalance, or internal tire damage. Although other car issues can cause vibration, it’s a good idea to start by checking the tires, as they are often the culprit.
Regular tire maintenance and inspections are crucial for the longevity of your Toyota and your safety on the road. If you notice any of these signs, call Toyota South today to schedule your vehicle for a thorough tire inspection, to see if it might be time to invest in a new set of tires.
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