When should I get new tires for my car? This is a question I think about every year, usually in the fall. Currently, my lovely Dodge Journey has a little over 30k in miles on it. The tires are the ones I bought the car with, you know, the factory ones that are not supposed to last very long. I swear they all wear out by 35k. So guess what? I’m getting new tires before winter hits.
I always take my Journey to the dealership for repairs and maintenance. It’s just easier to have it done all in one place. Plus, the mechanics there are trained to work on my vehicle. That means they have special training that other non-Dodge mechanics do not have. I also like doing my repairs and maintenance at one location because I never have the oh, the other mechanic did it, game going on. The dealership is the only place that touches my car so if anything is questionable they can pull my records and see exactly what was done the last time I was in.
So how do you know when you need to get new tires? Well, I have some tips for you to help you tell when to take your vehicle in for new tires.
The Penny Test
Take a penny and put Abraham Lincoln into your tread with his head down, into the tread. If his whole head is visible then it’s time for new tires. If any part of his head is not visible you are fine but if it’s only a little bit covered you may want to start saving for those tires.
Tire Age
I never have to worry about this test because I drive so much. All that traveling really adds up, our latest trip to Missouri added 2000 miles onto my car in one week! It is suggested that if your tires are older than 6 years old you look into buying new tires. Some say every 10 years so check your tire specs and car manufacturer for more specifics.
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