As Thanksgiving approaches, many drivers prepare for long-distance trips to visit family and friends. While you may be focused on packing the car or avoiding traffic, your vehicle’s tires deserve serious attention before you hit the road. They are the only point of contact between your car and the pavement, and problems like low tread, improper inflation, or hidden damage can turn a festive journey into a frustrating or even dangerous one.
A few simple checks before your trip can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and safe ride. This guide covers the key tire checks that can help you avoid delays and unexpected stops on the way to your holiday destination.
Start with Tread Depth
Tread depth is a major factor in how well your tires perform, especially in wet conditions. When the tread is too low, your car becomes more likely to slide or hydroplane, which is a real concern during fall and winter rains. The legal minimum tread depth in most states is 2/32 of an inch, but traction starts to decline well before that.
For peace of mind, check your tread depth with a penny. Insert the coin into the tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is worn, and the tire should be replaced. For better wet-weather performance, many experts recommend replacing tires when the tread reaches 4/32 of an inch.
Check Tire Pressure When Cold
Tire pressure can drop significantly as the temperature drops. For every 10-degree decrease in air temperature, tires typically lose about one pound of pressure. Low pressure not only reduces fuel efficiency, but it also causes uneven wear and affects braking and handling. Before your trip, check each tire’s pressure when the tires are cold.
Use the tire pressure listed on the driver’s door placard, not the maximum pressure listed on the tire itself. Be sure to check the spare tire too. A flat spare won’t help you much in an emergency.
Inspect for Visible Damage
Look closely at the sidewalls and tread surface for any cuts, bulges, or embedded objects like nails. These could lead to a blowout or slow leak during your trip. If you notice a bubble in the sidewall, that tire should be replaced immediately, even if it still holds air. That kind of damage often indicates internal structural failure.
Also, look for uneven wear patterns. If one part of the tread is worn down more than the others, it could signal an alignment or suspension problem. Uneven wear shortens the life of your tires and affects handling.
Rotate Tires If Needed
If your tires haven’t been rotated recently, this is a good time to do it. Rotating tires helps ensure even wear across all four corners of the car. This not only extends tire life but also improves your car's handling predictability. Many drivers overlook this step, but it can make a big difference over the course of a long trip.
Check the Age of Your Tires
Even if your tread looks fine, old tires can be risky. Rubber degrades with time, becoming more brittle and prone to cracking. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires that are more than six years old, regardless of tread depth. You can find the tire’s manufacture date printed on the sidewall as part of the DOT number. The last four digits indicate the week and year it was made.
For example, “4021” means the tire was manufactured in the 40th week of 2021. If your tires are getting close to or beyond that six-year mark, consider replacing them before your trip.
Don’t Rely Solely on Visual Checks
Sometimes, problems with tires aren’t visible to the eye. Internal damage, slow leaks, or pressure loss from a faulty valve stem may not show obvious signs. That’s why it’s a good idea to stop by a trusted auto repair shop near me to get your tires professionally inspected before heading out.
Technicians can perform more advanced checks, including balance and alignment testing. If your steering wheel vibrates at highway speeds or your car pulls to one side, an alignment or balance issue may be behind it. Addressing these issues in advance enhances safety and reduces fatigue during long drives.
Stay Safe with a Pre-Trip Tire Inspection at Morrison Tire Inc. in Garden Grove, CA
Before you pack the car and hit the road this Thanksgiving, make sure your tires are ready for the journey. At Morrison Tire Inc. in Garden Grove, CA, our team can inspect your tires for wear, pressure, and damage, and recommend any maintenance or replacements needed. A little preparation now can help you avoid delays and keep your holiday trip safe and stress-free.
Schedule your tire check today and travel with confidence.