When Should You Get New Tires For Your Car?

The answer to this question can have several variables.  Although most tire manufacturers say that tires on a new car can last for about 50K miles, the actual number of miles you can drive on a tire is dependent upon various factors, such as:

• What is the quality of the tire?
• Are your tires all-purpose for year-round driving, or snow tires?
• How is the tire mounted on your car?
• What is the tread-wear rating, or the expected tread life?
• How and for what purpose is the car driving? 

So how do you know when should you get new tires for your car?  By following the tire service tips below, the life of your tires is extended, preventing emergency tire repair:  

• Inspecting the inflation pressure – The right inflation pressure will ensure optimal contact with the road; improving fuel economy and helping the tread wear more evenly. 
• Rotating tires – Rotating tires to a different position on your car helps ensure they wear out in an even pattern. Many tire service shops don’t charge for a tire rotation service if you have it done at the same time as another service, such as oil changes.  Tires should usually be rotated every 6 months or 6,000 to 8,000 miles.  
• Wheel Alignment – The wheels are aligned with the suspension so that the angles of the tires maximize their contact with the road.
• Tire Balancing – Weights placed on the rim of the tire help balance the tire if one component of the tire is heavier than another portion.  This will ensure that your tires roll down the road as smoothly as possible. 

So why is quality tire service so important?  Because tires are the only components of your vehicle that really touch the road, taking good care of them will not only save you money on having to replace them, but it also increases the safety of your vehicle.

Did you know…Most tire manufacturers are rated with the specific lifespan of the tire so that car owners know how many miles to expect out of their new tires?  

Have more questions about how do you know when should you get new tires for your car?  Call our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about basic tire repair service and to request an appointment. Our family-owned auto repair shop has proudly served car owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.