What are the signs of bad tires?

Perhaps nothing is as important as tires to a vehicle. They ensure the vehicles stay on the road, maintain friction, and offer control. Tires may however wear out with time and this may have a huge impact on their performance and safety. Drivers should be able to identify indicators of bad tires and change them instantly to minimize the chances of accidents and improve driving. The need for different signs that signal tire repair service will be discussed in this article.

What are the Signs of Bad Tires?

1. Uneven Tread Wear: Inspect for uneven wear on the tread pattern. If one side of the tire is more worn than the other, it may indicate misalignment or other problems
2. Bald Spots: Smooth or bald spots on the tread are signs of uneven wear, possibly caused by alignment issues, suspension problems, or overinflation.
3. Tire Age: Tires deteriorate over time, even if they have enough tread. Inspect the sidewall for the tire's manufacture date, generally represented by a 4-digit code. If the tires are older than 6 years, they may need changing.
4. Cracks or Bulges: Check the sidewalls for cracks, bulges, or blisters. These can indicate structural damage or weakness in the tire, often caused by impacts or under-inflation.
5. Vibration: If you experience excessive vibrations while driving, it could be a sign of imbalanced or damaged tires. This may also indicate issues with the suspension or wheel alignment. 
6. Loss of Air Pressure: Regularly inspect your tire pressure. If a tire constantly loses air, it may have a puncture or a faulty valve. Underinflated tires can lead to poor fuel efficiency, uneven wear, and increased risk of a blowout.
7. Handling Problems: If your vehicle pulls to one side while driving, it could be a sign of improper tire alignment or problems with the suspension. Difficulty steering or a feeling of instability should also be investigated.
8. Visible Damage: Look for any visible damage to the tires, such as cuts, bulges, or punctures. Sharp objects, potholes, or impacts can cause these problems.
9. Excessive Road Noise: Unusual or increased road noise, especially at high speeds, may indicate uneven wear or tire damage. It could also be a sign of issues with the car's suspension.
10. Vibrations under Braking: If you feel vibrations specifically when braking, it could be due to problems with the tires, such as flat spots or uneven wear.

Wondering about what are the signs of a bad tire? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about tire repair service and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.