Apr 21, 2011
Did you know Abe Lincoln is a tire expert? It’s true. Try inserting a penny into your tire tread. If Lincoln’s head is partially covered, you’re in good shape. But if you can see too much of Honest Abe, it’s time to visit your dealer mechanic for some maintenance. Here are some common tire issues to watch for, and what they mean for your car’s health:
- Wear Bars. Worn-down tires have bars showing across the treads. Their traction is dangerously reduced, and they’re susceptible to hydroplaning. They need to be replaced immediately.
- Uneven Wear. Are your tires wearing heavily in one spot? This can be a sign of misalignment, or too much/little tire pressure.
- Cupping, Feathering, or Flat Spots. These can be a sign of malfunctioning brakes, struts, or other mechanical issues.
- Deteriorating Sidewalls. Your treads might be healthy, but sidewalls are susceptible to chips, small punctures, and chemical deterioration. Your dealer mechanic can patch sidewall problems before they occur.
- Sudden or Rapid Wear. Are your brand-new tires wearing quickly? Did you recently install new rims or offsets? Your dealer will ensure that tire size and rim type are the best for your car.
Use those pennies and visit your dealer. You’ll be confident when the rubber hits the road.
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