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Tires are one of the most important parts of your car. Tires are to cars what legs are to human beings. Tires, just like other car parts, are exposed to the elements. Your tires are subject to abuse on a daily basis. Using worn tires is a recipe for disaster. Once a tire wears out, its ability to grip the road takes a considerable hit resulting in major safety issues. Cars with worn tires are moving coffins on the road. To ensure your well being, and the safety of people on the road, you need to replace your worn tires. You should know the exact time of changing your tires. Changing them too early, and you could be wasting a good set of tires. Waiting for too long to get a new set, on the other hand, can result in performance and safety issues.

Because tread designs degenerate, tire shops in Hayward advise their car owners to check their car tire tread regularly. Tires with worn tread designs should be replaced immediately. Tire tread is measured in 32nds of an inch. The tread material of new tires varies from 9/32’’ to 11/32’’. You know it’s time to change your tire when its tread is worn down to 2/32’’. To determine your tire tread, perform the Lincoln Penny Tread Depth Test, which involves inserting a penny into the tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing you. If you are able to see Lincoln’s entire head, your tread is no longer deep enough, and you should seriously consider getting your tire changed.

Many new models come with tread wear indicators. These are built into the tread across the main grooves. In a new tire, these indicators are barely visible. As the tread starts wearing down, these indicators become visible. If you can clearly see indicators on your tires, get them replaced immediately.

When determining the right time to replace your tire, one of the most important factors to consider is its age. Old tires (6-10 years) should be replaced even if their tread is intact. To find out how old your tire is, check the DOT Tire Identification Number. If your car was manufactured after 2000, the last four digits of your Tire Identification Number indicate the week and year of manufacture. If your tire has cuts, bulges, or punctures in the sidewall, replace it immediately. 

Still confused about when to change the tires of your car? We’re here to help. To get tire replacement and other car maintenance tips, call Bruce's Tire & Auto Service at 510-324-0202. To learn more about us, fill out our contact form, and a service expert will get back to you with all the information you need.