It is important to inspect your tires during the winter. The air pressure should be inspected because in the winter it can drop as much as one pound per square inch with every ten-degree decrease. The tire should not be over or under inflated, this way you can help to prevent the tires from blowing out or picking up sharp objects. The condition of the tires should also be looked at. They should be free of any marks or cracks, as well as blisters or bulges. We can also inspect the tires for you to look at the condition they are in. If there is a minor issue with the tires, we can patch or fix the tire until you are ready to buy a new set. It is always best to buy four tires at once, rather than one at a time. If there is a larger issue, such as the tires wearing unevenly or losing the tread, we can help to recommend what the best solution should be.
Feeling Vibrations as you Drive
The tread of the tire may start to develop a defect that cannot be balanced out with regular maintenance. This is typically caused by a minor separation of the steel and polyester bands inside the tire. When this happens, it may feel like the tires are out of balance, even if they are straight. You may also notice wobbling of the tires when you drive. The wobbling will feel like the vehicle bounces up and down and you might also see the steering wheel move. If you notice any usual vibrations or feels, make sure to bring the vehicle in as soon as you can.
Noises you might hear
When driving, tires might make unusual noises. Some of these are normal wear and tear of the wheels rotating. Other noises are a sign of potential bad tires. A constant humming noise that changes with speed may indicate tread that is chopped. This can also result in a suspension component issue. If there is a load thumping sound, it could be an indication that there is a flat spot in the tire. Flat spots may be caused by a defect in the tire or if the brakes lock up. The tread will begin to wear unevenly over time. It is important to bring your vehicle in as soon as you can so we can inspect the tires and the tread. This can help to ensure the tires have proper grip when traveling on the road.
If the Tire Lacks Traction
If the tread has worn down, the result will be that the vehicle has little to no traction when driving. The tread is designed to allow the water on the road to escape from the tread so you can grip the road better. If there is no tread, water will stay on the tire and hydroplaning may occur. If there is a lack of tread, it is recommended to get new tires on your vehicle.