Tire Safety & Tire Age
Understanding tire age and safety are critical aspects of overall vehicle maintenance. Keeping tires in safe operating condition at all times decreases the chances of tire failure, personal injury and property damage.
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Features
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Considering tire features, including radial or bias design, tread patterns, traction and tread wear ratings and warranties, should be taken into consideration during a purchase. Choosing inappropriate tires should be avoided.
Function
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Properly functioning tires will have usable tread depth, no cracks on the sidewalls and be of proper size for the vehicle. Tires should be replaced when the wear indicators are flush with the tread to minimize hydroplaning.
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Types
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Tires are available in a wide variety of tread designs and performance ratings. Keeping the same size, type and age of tire on each wheel decreases the chances of premature tire failure and vehicle alignment issues.
Considerations
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Replacing tires 6 years old or older is recommended by most new car manufacturers regardless of mileage or visible tire wear. Sidewall cracking and weakening from sunlight causes tire failure, especially in older tires.
Misconceptions
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Aging tires have much less flexibility and durability than new tires. Continuing to use older tires that show little tread wear could compromise your vehicle's safety due to sidewall failure or hydroplaning, causing personal injury and vehicle damage.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Team Dalog
