14 Sep Tire Wear: 4 Ways to Check for Safety

Tire Wear: 4 Ways to Check for Safety

Tire condition is one of the most important factors in vehicle safety. Worn, damaged, improperly inflated, or poorly maintained tires can affect vehicle handling, braking, and stability and may contribute to tire failure. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify problems before they become serious.

Guide for Discussion

There are four important ways to maintain tires and monitor tire wear.

1. Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Incorrect tire pressure can cause uneven tread wear, poor handling, excessive heat buildup, reduced fuel efficiency, and premature tire failure.

• Check tire pressure regularly and before long trips.
• Check pressure when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
• Use the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressure, normally found on the tire-information placard or in the owner’s manual.
• Do not use the maximum pressure molded on the tire sidewall as the vehicle’s recommended inflation pressure.
• Inspect tires for slow leaks or repeated loss of pressure.
• Never operate a vehicle with a visibly flat or significantly underinflated tire.

2. Rotate Tires as Recommended

Regular tire rotation helps promote even tread wear and may extend tire life.

• Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended rotation schedule and pattern.
• Inspect the tires for unusual wear during each rotation.
• Investigate uneven wear rather than simply rotating the affected tire to another position.

3. Maintain Proper Wheel Balance and Alignment

Improper wheel balance or alignment can cause premature or uneven tire wear and adversely affect vehicle handling.

Possible warning signs include:

• Vehicle pulling to one side.
• Uneven or rapid tread wear.
• Steering-wheel vibration.
• Unusual vibration at certain speeds.
• Steering that does not feel centered or stable.

Have the vehicle inspected by qualified personnel when these conditions are noticed.

4. Replace Worn or Damaged Tires

Tires must have sufficient tread to maintain traction, particularly on wet roads.

Most tires have treadwear indicators molded into the tread grooves. These indicators become flush with the tread surface when tread depth reaches approximately 2/32 inch (1/16 inch).

Do not rely solely on tread depth. Replace or have a tire professionally evaluated when you find:

• Cuts, cracks, or punctures.
• Bulges or blisters.
• Exposed cords or fabric.
• Uneven or excessive wear.
• Damage to the sidewall.
• Repeated loss of air pressure.
• Other conditions that could affect safe operation.

Remember

Your tires are the vehicle’s contact with the road. Check inflation pressure, tread condition, wear patterns, and visible damage regularly. If you are uncertain about a tire’s condition, have it inspected by qualified personnel before continuing to operate the vehicle.