If you’ve been driving for long enough, you understand the importance of having a good set of tires underneath your vehicle. Your owner’s manual can advise you on the typical length of time you can go between tire replacements, but the general rule of thumb is that tires generally last between 40,000 – 60,000 miles.

At Group 1 Ford Pensacola, our state-of-the-art service center provides drivers throughout Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach with honest and dependable care in every aspect of their vehicle’s maintenance. Continue reading to learn some common signs you’re due for a replacement and how to check your tire’s health on your own.

Signs You Should Change Your Tires

Old, worn-out tires can negatively affect your vehicle’s performance and in a worse-case scenario, lack the stopping power needed in an emergency situation.  Some common signs to look out for include:

• Bulges and Blisters. As tires age, their outer surface begins to fade and deteriorate.  Weak spots will begin to form on your tire’s sidewall and begin to bulge. If not caught in time, this bulge can burst while you’re driving down the road, resulting in an accident.
• Sidewall Cracks. Similar to a bulge, cracks will most frequently appear on your tire’s sidewall and are usually visible to the naked eye.
• Excessive Vibration. If you notice your vehicle is experiencing excessive vibrations while driving on a well-paved wood, it could be the sign of a structural defect.
• Worn Treads. When the indicator bar found inside the tread well becomes visible, it’s a clear sign that your tires need to be replaced.
• Tire Pressure Warning Light. If you’re regularly having to stop to put air into one or more of your tires, it’s time to have them inspected at a licensed service center.

How Do I Check My Tire Treads?

Tire treads refers to the part of the tire that make actual contact with the road. Deep grooves grip the road surface, allowing you to steer and brake more effectively. Tire treads are measured in 32nds of an inch, so a healthy tire tread depth should average around 10/32nds or about 1/3 of an inch. If you have tires designed for off-road travel, the treads will be deeper.

To best gauge when you should replace your tires, follow this simple guideline:

• 4/32’’ or deeper = Good condition
• 3/32’’ = Replace tires soon
• 2/32’’ or less = Replace immediately

A simple trick to measure the health of your tire treads is to take a penny and insert it into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head pointed into the tire. If you’re able to see all of Lincoln’s profile, then your tires are worn out and need to be replaced as soon as possible.

Schedule a Tire Inspection Today!

Don’t risk a breakdown or serious accident due to neglect. At Group 1 Ford Pensacola, our friendly and knowledgeable team can provide speedy service and have you back on the roads of Pensacola, Crestview, and Fort Walton Beach in no time. Simply stop in or schedule an appointment online today!