As a Subaru owner, you take pride in your vehicle’s reputation for safety, durability, and performance, and there’s a deep connection there. No matter how rugged your Subaru might be, though, it’s the tires that connect it to the road, and those tires eventually wear out. Here’s how to know it’s time for new tires from your Subaru dealer.
Time for New Tires From Your Subaru Dealer?
Tread Depth Matters
One of the first signs that it might be time to replace your tires is a decrease in the tread depth. An easy way to check this is the penny test. Simply insert a penny head-first into the tire tread. If you can see the entirety of Abraham Lincoln’s head, then the tread depth has likely fallen below 2/32 of an inch, indicating a need for tire replacement. While this method isn’t exact, it’s a good starting point.
Cracks and Bulges on the Sidewall
While treads are a clear indicator, don’t forget the sidewalls. If you spot cracks or bulges on your tire’s sidewall, it’s an immediate red flag. Bulges often mean there’s an issue with the internal frame of the tire or that air is seeping into places it shouldn’t. Similarly, cracks can develop due to age, exposure to harsh elements, or general wear and tear. These imperfections can compromise the structural integrity of your tires, making them unsafe.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
Have you noticed a change in your Subaru’s performance? Sluggish handling, less grip on wet surfaces, or longer stopping distances can be indicators that your tires are no longer performing optimally. In addition to affecting performance, worn tires can also decrease fuel efficiency. If you find yourself visiting the gas station more frequently without an obvious reason, it might be due to tire wear impacting your Subaru’s fuel economy.
Vibrations and Noises
We’ve all experienced it—a strange vibration or noise that seems to come out of nowhere. If you feel a consistent vibration while driving, especially at highway speeds, it might be linked to uneven tire wear or balance issues. A misaligned or unbalanced tire can lead to premature wear and reduce your tire’s lifespan.
Age Is Not Just a Number
Even if they appear fine on the outside, tires have a natural lifespan. You should be regularly checking tires that are more than six years old, irrespective of their outward condition. Rubber compounds degrade over time, and the structural integrity of a tire can be compromised even if it’s been sparingly used.
Taking the time to regularly check and understand the condition of your Subaru’s tires ensures that you continue to enjoy the performance, safety, and efficiency that you’ve come to love. Contact us at Sunset Hills Subaru right away if you need some new wheels!
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