Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making them a crucial part of your car’s safety and performance. Worn-out tires can compromise traction, handling, and braking, increasing the risk of accidents. Knowing when to replace your tires is essential for staying safe on Utah’s roads.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your tires, Oil Rig Automotive is here to help. Whether you need new tires in Provo, Utah, or a professional inspection, our experts will ensure you’re driving on safe, reliable tires.
Tread Wear: The Penny Test
Your tire tread grips the road, helping you maintain control in wet, snowy, or icy conditions. As tires wear down, their ability to provide traction diminishes. A simple way to check tread depth is the penny test:
- Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down.
- If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low, and it’s time to replace your tires.
For a more precise measurement, tire tread should be at least 2/32 of an inch, but for optimal safety, replacing them at 4/32 of an inch is recommended—especially for winter driving in Utah.
If your tires are worn, visit Oil Rig Automotive for quality tires in Salem, Utah, and expert installation.
Cracks, Bulges, and Sidewall Damage
Tires are exposed to harsh road conditions, temperature fluctuations, and UV rays, which can cause sidewall cracks and bulges. These issues may seem minor, but they can lead to sudden blowouts.
Signs of sidewall damage:
- Visible cracks or dry rot
- Bulges or blisters on the sidewall
- Uneven wear on the tire surface
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait—schedule a tire inspection at Oil Rig Automotive, your trusted shop for tires in Orem and surrounding areas.
Uneven or Excessive Wear
Uneven tire wear is often a sign of misalignment, improper inflation, or suspension issues. Check for these wear patterns:
- Center wear: Overinflation causes excessive wear in the middle of the tread.
- Edge wear: Underinflated tires wear out on the edges first.
- Cupping or scalloping: Indicates suspension problems or unbalanced tires.
Rotating your tires regularly and maintaining proper inflation can help prevent uneven wear. If your tires are wearing down unevenly, it’s best to have them checked by a professional.
Frequent Loss of Air Pressure
Tires naturally lose a small amount of air over time, but if you’re frequently refilling your tires, there could be a slow leak, a damaged valve stem, or a puncture. Driving on underinflated tires can:
- Reduce fuel efficiency
- Increase tire wear
- Cause poor handling and braking
If you’re constantly dealing with low tire pressure, it may be time for new tires. Visit Oil Rig Automotive for a thorough tire inspection and expert recommendations.
Age of Your Tires
Even if your tires look fine, they don’t last forever. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six to ten years, regardless of tread wear. Over time, the rubber deteriorates, making older tires more prone to failure.
To check the age of your tires:
- Look for the DOT number on the sidewall.
- The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture (e.g., “2518” means the 25th week of 2018).
If your tires are over six years old, it’s a good idea to replace them, even if they still have tread.
Poor Performance in Bad Weather
Utah’s changing weather conditions demand reliable tires. If your vehicle struggles in rain or snow, it may be due to worn tread or the wrong type of tire for the season. Consider switching to:
- All-season tires for year-round performance
- Winter tires for superior traction in snow and ice
- Performance tires for enhanced grip and handling
If you’re unsure which tires are best for your driving needs, Oil Rig Automotive can help you choose the right tires in Provo, Utah and install them professionally.
Stay Safe with Quality Tires from Oil Rig Automotive
Replacing your tires at the right time is essential for safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. If you notice worn tread, sidewall damage, frequent air loss, or poor handling, don’t wait—schedule a tire inspection today.
At Oil Rig Automotive, we offer a wide selection of top-quality tires in Salem, Utah, Orem, and Provo. Whether you need new tires, a rotation, or a safety check, our team is ready to help.
Drive with confidence—visit Oil Rig Automotive for expert tire service today!
