When Is It Time to Replace Your Tires?

June 28th, 2024 by

Despite the crucial role that tires play in keeping you safe on the roadway, their maintenance is often neglected. But we make car care simple here at McClinton Mitsubishi! From repairs to replacements, our experienced technicians have you covered.

Not sure when it’s time for a tune-up? Wondering if new tires are needed? Keep reading to find out what our experts at McClinton Mitsubishi have to say!

Why Does Tire Quality Matter?


Worn-out tires prevent optimal handling and performance, making your experience behind the wheel less than ideal. In fact, research from AAA found that driving on worn tires at highway speeds in wet conditions boosted average stopping distances by 43%, or about 87 additional feet. Excessive tire wear also decreases fuel efficiency, so you’ll pay more at the pump.

How to Tell When It’s Time for New Tires 

When it comes to tire care, visually checking for wear and tear might not be as easy as you think. Your tires may appear brand new, but upon closer inspection, cracks or low tread may hint at potential problems.

Here are some of our top tips for determining the right time for new tires:

Check Your Tires’ Age 

As a rule of thumb, a set of new tires typically lasts about six years. Over time, environmental conditions cause the rubber to degrade, leaving behind structural damage that may not be visible from the outside.

To determine your tires’ age, simply look up the make and model on the manufacturer’s website. Or just stop by a Mitsubishi Service Center near you for a quick check!

Conduct the Tire Tread Penny Test 

The Penny Test is one of the simplest ways to tell if your tires’ tread has worn down to unsafe levels. To check tire tread depth, grab a penny and hold it between your tires’ treads, with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing down toward the tire. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, it means your tires are worn down, and it’s time for new ones.

Cracks and Bubbles

Deep potholes and less-than-ideal road conditions may cause bubbles or cracks in your tires’ sidewalls. If not adequately addressed, even a tiny bubble or crack could lead to a blowout.

Vibrations 

When it’s time for new tires, you may notice some strange sounds or sensations behind the wheel. For instance, the steering wheel may vibrate or pull to one side when it’s time for a tire replacement or wheel alignment.

If your vehicle isn’t performing at its best, schedule an appointment at your local Mitsubishi Service Center! We offer the best in Mitsubishi auto repair in Parkersburg, WV, and will work with you to identify the problem and get you back on the road as quickly – and safely – as possible.

How to Keep Your Vehicle Road-Ready

Because we understand that a set of brand-new tires is a major investment, we strive to provide the most affordable prices on the best tires around. If you’re looking to extend the lifespan of your tires and get the most bang for your buck, we’ve got you covered! 

These quick tips can help keep your tires ready for the road ahead: 

  • Check your tire pressure monthly. 
  • Get a tire rotation every 5,000 miles. 
  • Have your tires’ balance checked.
  • Schedule a wheel alignment twice a year.

Trust McClinton Mitsubishi in Parkersburg With Your Tires’ Care

As one of the leading Mitsubishi dealerships near you, we make it our mission to help you every step of the way, from car-buying to continued maintenance. Our Service Center will help keep your Mitsubishi running like new, so you can make the most of the journey ahead.

Looking for a tire replacement near you? Trust the certified technicians at McClinton Mitsubishi to get the job done. We offer competitive prices and coverage so you can cruise with confidence.

Need other maintenance services, like an oil change or tire rotation? Just schedule an appointment with our service center to help keep your Mitsubishi ready for adventure at every turn! Feel free to call us at (304) 422-6501 for assistance over the phone.

Posted in Service, Tires