Tired and worn out tyres are dangerous. When accidents occur due to just one faulty tyre, the damages can be mind boggling. The sad reality is that many people do not have any idea at all if their tyres need to be replaced. They just rely on the warranty manual that states their shelf life. They don’t realise that very often the manual is wrong as the wear and tear of car wheels depend also on the manner of which each car owner drives their vehicle. To avoid accidents due to damaged tyres, you should really know the signs that will tell you they need replaced.
If You Have Time
The most logical thing to do if you want to know when your tyres need to be replaced is to visit your car mechanic or car service centre for advice. They are the right people to diagnose if the tyres are so worn that you will need to buy new ones. If you are a regular customer, do not worry about cost, they will give you a free check on the condition of your tyres.
If You Are Busy
Many people pretend to be busy or really are busy thus a trip to their mechanic or auto shop is really difficult to schedule. However, no one is too busy just to check tyres. Here are some signs indicating that you need to replace your tyres or buy a new set of tyres.
The Penny Test – who would have thought that a penny can save lives? You only have to place a penny with the head first into the grooves of the tyres and observe the following:
- If you frequently see the head of the Queen, your tyre is worn out and has to be replaced.
- If only a portion of the Queen’s head is covered, then it is not yet worn out and still okay. You might need to check the alignment to prevent further wear and tear of the tyre.
- The Age Test – Do you remember the last time you bought tyres? Supposedly, it can survive several years but due to the misuse and abuse of your car, signs of damage might appear earlier. If you no longer see grooves or treads and the tyre appears to be smooth then it is definitely time for you to change it.
- The Tread Meter Test – you can buy this item in shops that sell car parts, car maintenance and car accessories. Ask someone in the shop and if you have time, you can even ask them to teach you how to perform this test.
- The Physical Inspection Test – before you go for a drive always check your tyres. You might not be aware that it already has cracks and at anytime it could burst and cause a major accident. When you see several cracks or linings on the surface of your tyres, it is a tell tale sign that you need to buy new ones.
Accidents are something you have no control over. But taking good care of just a single tyre is one thing that you do have control of. Check your tyres now!!