When It Is Time for New TiresVarious factors, such as maintenance, temperatures,driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditionsinfluence when you need new tires.One way to tell when it istime for new tires is tocheck the treadwearindicators, which willappear when your tireshave only 1/16 inch(1.6 mm) or less oftread remaining.You need new tires if any of the following statementsare true:• You can see the indicators at three or more placesaround the tire.• You can see cord or fabric showing through thetire’s rubber.• The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or snaggeddeep enough to show cord or fabric.• The tire has a bump, bulge, or split.• The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage thatcannot be repaired well because of the size orlocation of the damage.The rubber in tires degrades over time, even if they arenot being used. This is also true for the spare tire, if yourvehicle has one. Multiple conditions affect how fast thisaging takes place, including temperatures, loadingconditions, and inflation pressure maintenance. Withproper care and maintenance tires will typically wear outbefore they degrade due to age. If you are unsure aboutthe need to replace your tires as they get older, consultthe tire manufacturer for more information.5-67
