How to Check Snow Tires for Wear

Winter weather can be especially hard on your vehicle's tires. Check your snow tires for wear often to avoid break downs. Make it a habit to check snow tire pressure and perform visual inspections for wear every week or so.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look at the owner's manual of your car for information on how to check your snow tires. Follow the specifications for maintenance provided there. Perform the maintenance "check list" that you will find in your manual on a regular basis.

2. Watch your snow tires to make sure they are wearing evenly. Visually look at your tires to see if they "look" right. There are pictures to look at on the American Automobile Association's website (see Resources). Generally, the tire should not be bulging in the middle or ends.

3. Listen to your tires when you are driving. Snow tires will make a noise that regular tires do not, but if you hear unusual noises, like thumping or whistling or feel unusual vibrations have your tires checked out immediately.

4. Feel your car when you are driving. If it tends to pull to one direction the snow tires on that side may not have enough air pressure or it may be worn. Have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible.

5. Check the snow tire pressure every time you get gas. Make sure the tires have the pressure that your car manual says is correct for that tire model. Also, visually inspect the tires at this time to get in the habit of checking for wear.

Resources

• Visit the American Automobile Association for information about snow tire care.