Mike Kelly Mitsubishi Blog

Modern car tires may be extremely tough, but they can still occasionally become damaged or wear down prematurely. Every safety-conscious driver should keep a close eye on the condition of their tires. If you ever notice the following warning signs, visit your local Mitsubishi dealership without delay to have new tires installed.

UNEVEN WEAR AND TEAR

Various factors, such as steering, braking, and weight distribution, cause car tires to wear down unevenly. Issues with the suspension or wheel alignment can accelerate how quickly tires become unbalanced in size.

When tires are no longer uniform in wear and size, it leads to performance and safety problems. You can counter unevenness with regular tire rotation at your local dealership. However, if your tires become too uneven for rotation to fix, you may need to replace the entire set of four.

DIMINISHED TREAD DEPTHS

All tires need sufficient tread depth to securely grip road surfaces. When any of your tires reach 2/32 of an inch in tread depth, it’s usually time for a new set of tires. And during chilly winter months when the roads are wet and slippery, consider changing your tires a while before they reach 2/32 of an inch.

PLUMMETING AIR PRESSURE

It’s considered good practice for drivers to check the air pressure of their tires at least once a month. If you notice any of your tires inexplicably losing pressure, have a technician inspect it. The tire may have a hidden puncture or some other problem causing an air leak.

RAPIDLY SPREADING CRACKS

Over the years, as tire rubber dries out, cracks naturally start to appear in the sidewalls. This can become a safety threat if the cracks become excessive in number or size.

SURFACE BLISTERS OR BULGES

A visible bulge or blister on the surface of a tire might indicate serious internal damage. Sometimes an impact with a curb or pothole can rupture the internal tubing, causing air to escape and form a bulge. This usually means the tire has to go.

DEEP CUTS OR GASHES

The thick area on the treads of a tire can tolerate some small cuts without necessarily compromising the tire’s strength. Any particularly long or deep cut or gash, however, might threaten the tire’s structural integrity; you’ll probably need to have it repaired or replaced.

EMBEDDED PIECES OF METAL

Tires occasionally pick up nails, screws, and other pieces of metal from the road. While checking the air pressure, also inspect your tires for any such embedded objects. It’s best to have an embedded object removed at once to see how deeply it penetrated.

Have your tires examined and rotated or replaced today by experienced technicians  Mike Kelly Mitsubishi. We’re a locally trusted full-service dealership offering a terrific range of vehicles and maintenance services.

Good tires make a huge difference in how your vehicle performs. They reduce road noise and vibrations, giving you and your passengers a smoother and more comfortable ride. They also enhance the safety of your vehicle by increasing traction, especially in harsh weather conditions. It’s important to replace tires before they are overly worn. But how can you tell when it’s time for new tires from your Mitsubishi dealer?

YOUR TIRES DON’T PASS THE PENNY TEST

A quick at-home test is a great way of determining if your tires are worn enough to need replacement. Simply place a penny into one of the gaps in your tire treads, with the top of Lincoln’s head facing toward the center of the wheel. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is less than 2/32 of an inch and your tires need to be replaced.

YOU CAN SEE CRACKS AND BULGES ON THE TIRES

Cracks and bulges on the sidewalls of your tires indicate heavy wear and the presence of weak spots. Both can put you at risk of a blowout, so you’ll want to schedule time to have your tires checked right away. This type of wear develops over time and can be the result of weather, improper tire alignment, and damage caused by scraping against curbs.

Tires have metal or polyester cords that support their structure. If your cords are visible, that’s another physical signal that a new set of tires is in order.

YOUR CAR SHAKES

Strong vibrations when your car is being driven at either fast or low speed are another indication that a new set of tires may be needed. If the metal belts inside your tires slip out of place, it can cause the vehicle to shake while being driven. Vibrations may also be a sign that your tires are unbalanced or out of alignment.

YOUR TIRE PRESSURE LIGHT IS FREQUENTLY ON

If your vehicle’s tire pressure light frequently comes on, signaling that your pressure is low, your tires may be wearing out. Many tires also now have tread wear bars, which are small rubber squares placed in the grooves of your tire. When the tread bars are even with the surface of your tread, you’ve experienced enough wear to merit replacement tires.

YOUR TIRES ARE OLD

Most tires should be replaced after six to 10 years on the road. If you can’t remember when you last purchased a new set of tires, it’s probably time to invest in replacement tires.

Good tires can extend the life of your vehicle by supporting safety and performance. Don’t ignore signs that your tires are wearing, and when you’re ready to schedule your next service appointment, call Mike Kelly Mitsubishi.