It is of the utmost importance that your vehicle’s tires are in excellent condition. Worn or damaged tires will influence handling, steering, and braking and could compromise your safety. The following signs are a clear indication that your Mazda tires need replacing.
1. The Age of the Tires
A set of tires should last you around six years, but they could last for up to ten years before you need to replace them. It doesn’t matter how well you looked after your tires, over time, the rubber degrades due to hot and cold temperatures, and structural damage occurs that is not visible to the naked eye.
2. Tire Loses Pressure
If a tire loses pressure and needs to be inflated more often, it is an indication that it is damaged. The tiniest hole could cause the tire to lose air. Luckily some leaks can be patched. If the leak is coming from the sidewall, the tire needs to be replaced.
3. The Tread Wear Indicator Bar Is Visible
Tires have indicator bars embedded in the rubber that is barely visible when the tires are new. As the tire wears down, the indicator bar becomes visible. When you see one or more of these bars on a tire, it is a warning that the tread is worn.
4. Worn Treads
Worn treads are extremely dangerous when driving on wet or icy roads. The legal safety standard in the U.S. is a 2.32-inch tread depth. With the simple and easy penny test, you can determine if the tires need to be replaced. Insert a Lincoln Penny headfirst into the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s head, the tread is worn down, and the tire needs to be replaced.
If the tread is worn down in the center, it is caused by overinflation. If the tread is worn down on the shoulders, underinflation is the culprit. The uneven tread is caused by poor wheel alignment, and wear on one side is incorrect camber angle. If you notice uneven tread wear of any kind, it’s best to consult a technician and replace the tire.
5. Cracks, Bubbles, Blisters, and Other Visible Damage
The sidewalls of a tire are generally not as strong and more prone to damage. Cracks or cuts in the sidewalls of the tire could cause a leak or even a blowout. Bubbles or blisters form when the outer wall of the tire becomes weak. When they burst, you could lose control of your vehicle. When you see a nail or any other road debris poking out of a tire, you need to ask your technician to take a look. If the damage is on the sidewall of the tire, the tire will have to be replaced.
6. You Feel Vibrations When Driving
When you feel vibrations when you drive on a well-maintained road, your tires might need to be aligned or be damaged. Pull over in a safe place and inspect your tires. If you see bubbles or cracks or no damage at all, it doesn’t mean there isn’t any. Ask your technician to thoroughly inspect your tires.
It is imperative to inspect your tires regularly to ensure that you and your passengers are safe on the road. Contact Rochester Mazda today for an expert tire inspection, rotation, or replacement.
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