How to Tell if You Need New Tires for Christmas

Add Custom Rims and Tires to Your Holiday Wishlist

Ah, the most wonderful time of the year. The holiday season is just around the corner, meaning now is the perfect time to create a wishlist to give to your friends and family. If you love upgrading your vehicle and have already installed a brand new car stereo system, you may think you’ve done it all when it comes to optimizing your ride. The reality is, there’s always something you can upgrade.

Many drivers overlook replacing their tires and only do once it’s too late. Unfortunately, the state of your tires can impact your safety on the road and make a collision more likely to occur. If you’re pondering what to add to your wishlist this year, tires may be the perfect choice.

What to Look For

Though you may not realize it, your tires can “age” over time. It can sometimes be difficult to recognize when your tires need to be replaced, which can put your safety at risk behind the wheel. It’s a good idea to inspect your tires every month to prevent an accident from occurring. Here are a few telltale signs to look for.

1 - Bulges, Gouges, or Cracks

As a tire starts to deflate, it loses its structure and typically bulges at the sides. This is usually a sign of low tire pressure or that there may be a hole somewhere in your tire. If you notice cracks, gouges, or anything out of the ordinary, you should get it checked out by an expert as soon as possible. This is a sign your tire needs to be replaced.

2 - Worn Down Tread

The tread of your tire is the rubber part on its circumference that comes into contact with the road. As you drive, the tread is worn down, worsening its ability to provide traction. Luckily, there’s an easy way to detect if your tread is worn out that you can quickly perform at home. All you’ll need is a penny.

Place the penny into the tread with the top of Lincoln’s upside down. If the top of his head is covered by your tires, they’re in good shape. But if you can still see the entirety of his head, your tires should be replaced.

3 - Low Tire Pressure

Over time, your tires will naturally deflate. You can expect them to lose about one pound per square inch, or PSI, every month. To stay safe on the road, you’ll always want to make sure your pressure isn’t too low. Most vehicles require a pressure between 27 and 35 PSI.

4 - Temperature Changes

The outdoor temperature can impact your tires, so you’ll want to pay extra attention to them when there’s a sudden change in the weather. Cooler temperatures reduce the pressure in your tires, and heat can build up within them in the summer. An underinflated tire can produce more heat and wear it out quicker.

5 - A Bumpy Ride

If you notice any vibrating or thumping while you’re driving, it may be time for a tire replacement. If you feel it under your seats, your rear tires could be unbalanced. If it’s located more in your steering wheel, it might be a suspension issue. Either way, you should get your tires checked out by a professional who will be able to indicate the issue right away.

Where You’ll Find the Best Tires

If you’ve discovered that you need new tires after learning about these telltale signs, don’t worry! At Stereo Depot, we offer high-quality wheels and tires near you for a great price. Our experts can examine your tires for you and answer any questions or concerns you may have.

The choice is yours between a selection of the most-trusted brands on the market. Shop BF Goodrich, Falken, and other reliable tire companies.

Personalize Your Ride at Stereo Depot!

Whether you’re in the market for new tires or are just wanting to make an upgrade, make your vehicle your own at Stereo Depot. When you shop our custom rims and tires, you’ll be able to customize your ride exactly how you like it. Your car will not only drive its best, but it’ll look its best, too.

Our professional installers can revamp your ride with our wheel and tire packages. Whether it’s Rotiform or Moto Metal wheels, you’re sure to turn heads on the road.

Don’t wait! Stop by Stereo Depot in San Diego or El Cajon to take your vehicle to the next level. If you have any questions regarding our wheel and tire packages, feel free to send us a message online.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!