What Every Driver Should Know About Tire Safety

Think of tires as the foundation of your vehicle. Everything from your ride comfort to your stopping power depends on them, more than most people realize. They’re your only direct contact with the road, and their condition affects everything from braking and handling to fuel efficiency. Ignoring tire maintenance can lead to uneven wear, reduced control, and even dangerous blowouts. Understanding how to care for your tires can extend their life, improve performance, and keep you safer behind the wheel.

Why Tire Alignment Matters

How Misalignment Affects Driving

When a vehicle's wheels aren't aligned properly, it can cause the car to pull to one side, vibrate, or steer unevenly. Misalignment usually results from hitting potholes, curbs, or just regular wear and tear. Over time, even small alignment issues can lead to premature tire wear and poor fuel economy.

Signs You May Need an Alignment

If you notice uneven tire tread, your steering wheel isn't centered, or your car drifts when you're driving straight, it's time to get the alignment checked. A technician can adjust the angles of your wheels so they meet manufacturer specs, helping your tires wear evenly and improving overall vehicle stability.

Checking Tread Depth and Tire Health

The Penny Test and Other Simple Checks

One of the easiest ways to check tire tread is the penny test. Insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace the tire. Most new tires start with 10/32 to 12/32 of an inch of tread depth. Anything below 2/32 of an inch is considered legally worn out.

Beyond tread, inspect tires regularly for cracks, bulges, or embedded debris. Low tire pressure, visible sidewall damage, and vibrations while driving are all signs that something may be wrong. Keeping an eye on these things can prevent unexpected flats or dangerous blowouts.

The Risks of Mismatched Tires

Swapping in different tire brands or styles might seem like a harmless shortcut. But it often leads to poor traction, inconsistent handling, and extra stress on your suspension system. Tires are designed to work as a matched set. This is especially critical in all-wheel-drive vehicles, where even slight differences in rolling resistance can create drivetrain strain or trigger costly mechanical issues.

When Mixing Tires Is (and Isn’t) Okay

Sometimes mismatching tires is unavoidable, such as in emergencies or when replacing a single damaged tire. In those cases, it’s best to match the tire as closely as possible in terms of tread pattern, brand, and wear. A technician can help you decide if it's safe or recommend rotating tires to balance out differences.

Keep Your Tires in Shape Year-Round

Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to promote even wear, extend their lifespan, and maintain a smooth, controlled ride. Make it a habit to check air pressure at least once a month and always before a long trip. Most modern vehicles are equipped with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), but it’s still a good idea to check manually to catch slow leaks or sensor issues early. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended PSI, which can be found on the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Seasonal changes can affect pressure, so it’s especially important to check during temperature shifts.

A good maintenance routine also includes wheel balancing. This process adjusts the weight distribution on each wheel to prevent vibration and uneven wear. Regular inspections are also important. Catching small problems early helps you avoid surprise repairs and keeps your tires in top shape longer.

Come Down to Sonny’s Auto Repairs

Whether you need a tire inspection, an alignment check, or just want peace of mind before your next road trip, we can help. A little preventive care goes a long way, protecting your safety, saving money, and making sure your car is ready for whatever the road throws your way. Call us at 516-822-3671 or visit the contact form on our website to schedule your appointment. Staying on top of tire maintenance helps your car handle better, last longer, and stay safe on the road.