Should You Change Your Tires? (PART 1)

Ideally, your tires should be the only part of your vehicle that must touch the ground. It is typical not to give as much thought to our tires until it’s too late and they finally fail. It is important to look into your wheels and give it care and attention. A quality and properly maintained tire contributes a lot when it comes to safety, fuel economy, handling and the overall comfort and quality ride. For beginners, walking into a tire showroom can be overwhelming with the hundreds of tire brands available today. Miracle Body and Paint in San Antonio has put together a list to make the selection process easier for you.

1. Inspect your tires and evaluate if you really need a new set of tires. Some sure signs that it is time for a change are excessive tread wear, cracked sidewalls, discolorations or bulging. Consider replacing your tires if they are already 10 years older or more, even if they look good as rubber deteriorates with oxygen exposure.
2. Check if your car is in good shape. Check your tires for any uneven wear which may indicate issues on alignment or suspension. Note if the wear is more prominent on the inside, outside or across the entire width of the tread. Putting new tires on a misaligned car or with bad shocks will wear your tires more quickly and unevenly. This will just mean you will be throwing money away for a new set in a hurry. A body shop can inspect your current tire set and give you an honest assessment if it’s really time to change your wheels.
3. Brush up on your owner’s manual and information placard. Your car’s manufacturer has surely listed some recommendations on the size and type of tires which work best with your vehicle. The information s permanently attached to your door edge, door post, glove compartment door or inside your trunk lid – as it is mandated by law. Ask your dealer or search the manufacturer’s website if you no longer have a copy of the manual and information placard.