An important element is driving on healthy tires when it comes to the safety of your vehicle. Usually over time and use, drivers will let the tires bald. If only to save a few bucks, they neglect the need to replace the tires. The dangers of driving on balding tires is what we at KB Towing Service would like to stress today.
How Do You Tell if Your Tires are Too Bald?
We first will like to take the opportunity to discuss the signs of bald tires before we tackle the dangers of driving with bald tires. Recognizing the signs can play a significant role to help your awareness of replacing problematic tires.
1) Visible Wear Bars. When the tread is completely worn, tire wear bars become more noticeable. They are the width of a pencil and run across the base of the tread from side to side. When they are the most obvious once the tread depth reaches 2/32.” The tread being worn down to the treadwear when the tire is no longer safe or legal for use and must be replaced an indicator.
2) Noticing Low Tread. If you suspect the tread is heavily worn, you may check the tread with this simple and effective tread inspection at home.
– Place a penny and insert in the tire tread’s edge into a groove so it touches the bottom.
– The penny should allow Lincoln’s head to be inserted into the tread.
– If the top of Lincoln’s head is fully visible, the tire’s tread depth is at or below 2/32” (the legal minimum) and the tire should be replaced.
3) Bulges & Cracks are Present. You should perform an overall visual inspection of your tires periodically; especially should you feel or hear anything unusual from them when driving. Check for cracks or cuts deep enough that the steel belts or body cords are exposed. This can indicate internal damage as you look for unusual bulges in the tread or sidewalls. If you are ever unsure, have a professional inspect the tires.
How Long Can You Drive on Balding Tires?
Driving on bald tires can result in vehicle damage can be risky as well costly from either tire failure or loss of vehicle control. Replacing bald tires immediately can prevent unnecessary expenses and risks.
1) Hydroplaning & Losing Control. When driving on bald tires in the rain as it increases the chances of skidding or hydroplaning, possible accidents, needed repairs, and hefty insurance costs can be expected.
2) Poor Braking. While driving, no matter the speed, a vehicle’s brakes are trusted to work. The tires provide traction, not the brakes, however. When driving on anything other than a perfectly smooth road free of sand, dirt and debris, bald tires compromise your brakes’ ability to stop by providing reduced traction. Poor braking efficiency increases the chance of being involved in an accident along with the unwanted repair costs.
3) Tire Punctures. Bald tires are more easily punctured due to the lack of remaining tread. As it rises the probability of losing of control of your vehicle, a puncture could cause a blowout is feasible in addition to the possibility of a flat tire.
Towing & Roadside Assistance Services & More in Rowlett, Garland, Mesquite, Rockwall, Wylie, Sachse & Greater Dallas, Texas
Since we depend on our tires for our safety when driving, it is critical that the tires are taken care of properly. Be proactive and replace your tires when they are considered bald. To help extend their tread life, make certain to check your tires’ tread and keep them properly maintained. KB Towing Service is readily available to provide towing and roadside services in Dallas, TX, call us when you need assistance.
