How Often Do You Need New Tires?

When you buy a new vehicle, it comes with brand-new tires that seemingly last for years. If you have no issues during your daily commute to work or school, you might ignore the state of your car’s tires. Unfortunately, tires don’t last forever, and you could overlook significant indicators that they need replacing. The more time passes between tire inspections, the more you risk a tire blowout or accident caused by failing tires.

Wondering about the life expectancy of your new vehicle’s tires or when your existing vehicle should get replacements? Our expert service team and tire technicians at Meadowland GMC in Carmel, New York, are here to help. Learn more below and get those questions answered.

 

How Many Years Do Tires Last?

The average tire lasts about six years, but some last up to 10. This equates to 36,000 to 75,000 miles. Regardless of the mileage, the quality of your car’s tires declines over time, even if you only drive your vehicle occasionally. Other factors, such as extreme environmental conditions, lack of maintenance, inconsistent driving habits, and poor vehicle storage, can decrease a tire’s life span more quickly than expected.

What Signs Should You Look Out For?

No matter the type of tire on your GMC, there are universal signs that indicate something is wrong. Your tires likely need replacing if you notice any of the following signs:

• Poor traction: Good traction helps your tires stick to the road while you’re driving, and this is essential when cornering at high speeds or navigating through wet weather. If your car feels like it’s slipping on the road, it could indicate the tire tread is low, affecting your car’s traction.
• Consistent tire air pressure loss: Maintaining your tires’ air pressure is easy to do with an air pump at the gas station or by visiting a certified tire repair shop every month or so. However, if you notice you are often adding air, there may be a leak, and you could need new tires.
• Tire warning light is on: Most auto manufacturers equip modern vehicles with a warning light that alerts you when the tire pressure is low or there is an issue with your tires. Bring your car to a service professional at Meadowland GMC for a tire inspection if the light does not turn off after you reinflate your tires.
• Bulges or cracks on the tires: Over time, the appearance of your tires can change due to age, environmental conditions, or driving habits. Bulges or cracks on a tire’s surface indicate an underlying issue, such as a slow leak or poor tire pressure. It’s best to get your tires checked as soon as you notice either of these problems.
  
  
• Vibration while driving: Driving should be fairly smooth, aside from speed bumps or potholes on the road. If you notice a vibration coming from your car’s tires as you drive, they could be out of balance and require attention.

How Should Your Treads Look?

Tire treads have special grooves and lines that wear down over time. The tread’s condition can indicate that your tires need replacing. New tires often have a tread depth of about 10/32 of an inch. Tires with treads at or below 2/32 of an inch are unsafe to drive on for any distance. Here are some tips on how to check your tire tread:

• The penny test: Grab a penny and turn it upside down with the top of President Lincoln’s head touching your tire. Insert the penny into a groove on the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s entire head, your tire’s tread is too low, and it’s time to buy new tires.
• Tire tread depth gauge: You can purchase this tool online or at an auto parts store and keep it in your car’s center console or glove compartment. Once a month, check your tire tread depth with the gauge for an exact measurement — as it nears 2/32 of an inch, you know it’s time to replace your tires as soon as possible.
• Tread wear indicators: A part of the grooves in your tire’s tread, these indicators are built-in, evenly spaced, and raised. Over time, the tread wear indicators wear down, so when they are level with the tire tread, you know you need replacements.

If you’re not confident in checking your own tires, don’t worry. Our certified automotive technicians at Meadowland GMC have the tools, knowledge, and experience to inspect your tires and diagnose any issues. If they need replacing, our techs will find the right tires to match your vehicle’s exact make and model for a perfect fit. Plus, you’ll get expert installation to ensure your vehicle receives the best service.

Purchase New Tires at Meadowland GMC

You rely on your tires to help you reach your destination safely. Tires that are in good shape provide reliable stopping times and traction in any road condition. If that’s not the case for your tires, it’s time to replace them. Need new tires in Carmel, New York? Contact our Meadowland GMC service center at 845-228-8465. Our expert service technicians will also help with routine tire maintenance to prolong your tire’s life span. Ask about our service specials for the latest savings and discounts on your next service.

Photo Credit: Image by Mikes-Photography is licensed with Pixabay License

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