When to Buy Tires 

They say a diamond is forever and it may be true, but your vehicle’s tires are definitely not meant to last forever. Tires need to be replaced due to age, wear, seasonal/climate changes and sometimes just for fun. If you’ve been wondering when to replace your tires, here are some helpful tips to guide you.

Check the tread

If your tires have less than 2/32 of an inch of tread left traction is reduced. Your tires will not have the same stopping distance especially in wet or snowy conditions as a newer tire with proper tread.

Check the wear bands

Narrow bands may appear in the grooves across the tire’s tread. When these wear bars are even with the tread depth, meaning only 2/32” of tread remains, replace the tire.

Safety concerns

Extreme wear and tear will result in exposed wire mesh along your tire’s surface. In this condition the tire may not be safe to drive on. Consult a tire professional as soon as possible.

Age

Tires age whether in use or not in use. No matter the visual condition of your tires they should be automatically be replaced when they are 10 years old or older 

Change of Climate or Change of Season

Snow tires are not built for the Sunshine State and some states so if you’ve moved from one climate to another it is time to analyze your tires and make sure they are appropriate in your new home. Places like Michigan spend part of the year in high summer heat and part of the year with cold, snow, and ice so tires are changed seasonally. 

When Tires go on Sale

Some experts say April & October are the best months to find great deals on tires due to changing seasons.

Vanity

There are some of us car aficionados who just like the way a certain tire looks, or just want to have the very latest in new technologies like run-flats. 

NOTE: When Buying New Tires, Replace Your Spare

If your car uses a full-size spare and you're replacing your tires with the same make, model and size, save the best used tire for a spare. Always have your spare tire pressure checked and inspected when the rest of your tires are checked.