How to check your vehicle’s tires for wear and tear

Video and text guide to inspecting your car’s tires 

One of the most important aspects of vehicle maintenance is keeping your tires in good condition. After all, your tires connect your car to the road, so if they’re worn or damaged, they can impact your safety and the performance of your vehicle. Below, we’ll go over how to check your vehicle’s tires for wear and tear. We can help you out at Carl Black Roswell in Roswell, GA. 

Tire Tread and Pressure | GMC video 

Watch this video for a quick explanation of how to check tire tread depth and pressure. 

Four steps to inspecting your vehicle’s tires at home 

By following these steps, you can keep your tires in good condition and ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive. If you have any questions about tire maintenance or need help inspecting your tires, don’t hesitate to contact a professional mechanic. At Carl Black Roswell, we’re here to help keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely. 

Step 1: Check your tire pressure with a gauge 

Before examining your tires for signs of wear and tear, it’s important to check your tire pressure. You can find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure in your owner’s manual or on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the pressure in each tire. Add air if necessary. Properly inflated tires will wear more evenly and last longer. 

Step 2: Check your tire tread depth with a penny 

Tire tread provides traction and stability on the road, so it’s important to make sure it’s not worn down too much. One way to check the tread depth is to use the penny test. Insert a penny into the groove of your tire with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tire’s tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace your tires. If you can’t see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tire’s tread is still good. 

Step 3: Check for uneven wear visually 

Uneven wear on your tires can be a sign of alignment issues or other problems with your vehicle. To check for uneven wear, look for areas on the tire that are more worn than others. You can also run your hand over the surface of the tire to feel for any bumps or irregularities. If you notice uneven wear or damage to your tires, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect them. 

Step 4: Check for damage visually 

Inspect your tires for any signs of damage, such as cuts, punctures, or bulges. If you notice any damage, it’s important to replace your tires as soon as possible. Driving on damaged tires can be dangerous and lead to a blowout on the road. 

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