When Should Car Tires Be Changed?

When should car tires be changed?

Tires are one thing on our car, truck, or SUV that we don’t ever consider, until there’s an issue. Yet, there could be some concerns ready to materialize even if the tires appear normal. Replacing your tires may boost your fuel efficiency, improve performance (specifically in emergency situations), boost dependability, and lessen the risk of damage caused by a flat tire. We can help advise you about the positives and negatives of not replacing tires at the right time if you have concerns about getting tires too quickly.

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What Are The Potential Hazards of Not Having Your Vehicle’s Tires Changed?

The reduced safety of your car is the largest hazard of not switching your tires. Worn tires may increase braking intervals and diminish traction in crisis conditions. The next time a vehicle pulls out in front of you it might take longer to stop and be more challenging to dodge. Even though you may never encounter an emergency situation, the frustration of having to repair a flat is an event a lot of people would prefer to avoid. On the other hand, the advantage of switching worn tires is that it will take less distance to stop in emergency situations and you’ll have increased handling to miss such situations. Another positive, you won’t need to get grimy changing a worn tire on the highway.

How to Know When My Tires Need to be Changed

It’s imperative to understand when to replace your tires. There are 2 simple methods to understand when it’s time to replace your tires. The 1st way is knowing the age of the tires. If your tires are more than 6 years old then you should change them. The second method in determining if you should replace your tires is the tread depth. The recognized smallest safe tread depth is 2/32 inches. You ought to change your tires if it has worn down to that measurement.

How to Gauge Tread Depth

But how do I know my tread depth? There are specially designed gauges that will figure out precisely how much tread depth is left. Those tools are perfect if you must know the exact depth, but if you just want to figure out if you need to change your tires, all you need is a solitary penny. Turn the penny so Lincoln’s head is face down and put it into the tire tread. If his head is the same as the tire tread then you ought to start looking to replace your tires.

Do Tires Go Bad After Time?

If the tires are 6 years old (and older), then you should change them, even if they have plenty of tread left. Extended exposure to the elements and other factors may make the tire to decay over time. When your tire starts to break down it could be more likely to develop blow outs and/or air leaks. Warning signs of your tires breaking down include color fading, brittleness, and tire cracks. If you see any of these indications you may want to switch your tires immediately.

A Tire Blew Out, Now What Should I Do?

If you have a blowout you might want to only switch out the tire that failed. Depending on your car and the tread depth remaining on the other tires it may be necessary to change out two or even all 4 tires. If the tread between your tires are not the same it can cause irregular tire wear and excess wear and tear on your drivetrain. It is urged that when you are switching out a tire that you also replace its matching tire on the opposite side. Change both front tires or both back tires, never 1 tire alone. The exception to this rule is All-Wheel Drive cars. All 4 tires need to be changed out to assure that the system works accurately.

Where to Change Lexus Tires in the Houston Area?

Visit the Sterling McCall Lexus Clear Lake Tire Center today to learn more about your vehicle and your tires. Our friendly Lexus tire professionals are always happy to help. Do your tires need to be changed? Find out today. Schedule online or visit us in-person.

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When Should Car Tires Be Changed? | Sterling McCall Lexus Clear Lake

DealerRater Jul 10, 2025

Received fast and friendly service during visit for my vehicle service. Service Rep Jackie who handled my appointment through service completion was Awesome and kept me posted as my vehicle went through the service and complimentary wash process. I have taken my vehicle to this dealership for years and this was by far the best visit. Thank you Lexus of Clearlake for having the best team of service providers and technicians as the video of my service was very informative and well received.

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DealerRater Jul 10, 2025

I had a fantastic experience purchasing my new NX350h thanks to Jack Way! From the moment I walked in, Jack was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and helpful. He guided me through choosing the right vehicle, explained all the specs in detail, and made sure everything was personalized before I left the lot. He made the entire process feel smooth and enjoyable. Cory also deserves a shoutout—he handled the financial side with efficiency and professionalism, making that part of the experience seamless. Highly recommend working with Jack and Cory if you’re in the market for a Lexus. Their dedication ... Read More