Are you ready to hit the road and embark on summer road trip adventures? You might be ready, but are your tires? Before you hit the road this summer, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle is as ready as you are, starting with your tires! Worn or damaged tires can impact your ride, safety, fuel economy, and ability to handle sudden stops and wet road conditions.
At McCormick Quality Tires and Lube, we want Fort Collins drivers to drive confidently all summer long! Here are the top 5 signs that it’s time to replace your tires before your next trip:
Your Tread Depth is Too Low
Tread provides the traction you need for safe vehicle handling and stopping. This is especially important on hot pavement or in summer storms. If your tread depth is below 2/32 of an inch, it’s time to replace your tires. Here’s an easy trick to determine your tread depth: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down – if you can see the top of his head, your tread is too worn.
Visible Cracks or Bulges
Take a close look at your sidewalls. Cracks, gouges, or bulges are signs of dry rot or internal tire damage. These issues are common in older tires or vehicles that have been sitting unused. A bulging side wall is a glaring red flag; this means the tire could blow out at any time. Meaning it requires immediate attention!
Uneven Wear Patterns
If one area of your tire is significantly more worn than another, it could indicate misalignment, improper inflation, or suspension issues. Uneven wear reduces your control on the road and usually means the tire can’t be safely repaired. It’s better to replace and realign your tires before your road trip begins!
Excessive Vibration While Driving
Some vibration on rough roads is normal, but if you’re feeling constant vibrations or if your steering wheel shakes at highway speeds, your tires may be the culprit. The issue can stem from internal tire damage, unbalanced tires, or a bent wheel. All of these factors warrant a professional inspection as soon as possible.
Your Tires Are 6+ Years Old
Even if your tread looks okay, tires still age, and the older your tires are, the more likely they are to crack or fail entirely. Unfortunately, summer heat and highway conditions can exacerbate these issues. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing your tires every 6 to 10 years. If you’re unsure how old your tires are, check the DOT code on the sidewall of your tires, or stop by McCormick, and we’ll do a quick tire inspection free of charge and help you find the right replacement tires if needed!
Why Choose McCormick Quality Tires and Lube?
We’ve been keeping Fort Collins drivers safe on the road for nearly 20 years. We’re proud to offer personalized, no-pressure advice, fair pricing, and expert service. Whether you need new tires, a quick oil change, or a pre-trip inspection, our ASE-certified technicians will get the job done right the first time. We’re so confident in our team that we offer a 5-year, 60,000-mile warranty on all of our repair work. Schedule your appointment today!
