Check the Tread Wear Indicator
The tread wear bars of hard rubber are designed to be visible when your tire’s tread has become worn. If these tread wear bars show up, it’s time to buy a new set of tires. If you’re not sure where they are, you’ll see a mark on the sidewall that indicates where to look.
Tread Depth Gauge Measurement
There should be a minimum of between 1,6 mm tread depth. It’s a good idea to purchase an inexpensive tread depth gauge to check that your tires meet the legal minimum. Make sure you take measurements on both the inside and outside of your treads.
To avoid potential problems, have your tires checked at a Goodyear dealer location near you if you notice any of these common wear patterns:
TIRES ARE WORN ON THE OUTSIDE
If you notice that your tires are worn on both of their edges, you might need to inflate them or check for leaks. Tires lose air naturally, but driving on underinflated tires uses more fuel and puts you at greater risk of accidents. Make sure you check pressure regularly. If you notice that only the front tires have worn edges, you might be taking curves and corners too quickly.
EXCESSIVE WEAR IN THE CENTER OF THE TREAD
If the center of the tread is wearing more than the outer edges, you might have overinflated your tires. This can increase the risk of a tire blowout. Find the manufacturer’s specifications, get a pressure gauge and then deflate to the recommended pressure level.
UNEVEN WEAR ACROSS A SINGLE TIRE
The wear patterns on your treads can alert you to problems elsewhere on your vehicle. If you notice uneven patches of wear, or bald spots, you might need your wheels balanced or aligned. Sometimes bald spots indicate that your shocks are worn. Talk to a professional.
UNEVEN WEAR ACROSS THE TIRE FOOTPRINT
Your tires won’t wear out at the same rate. The front of your vehicle carries the engine and does most of the steering work, so tires on your front axle will wear out more quickly. If they seem to be wearing more than normal, you should have your suspension checked. If wear is greater on one side of the vehicle than the other, it might be time for an alignment.
SAWTOOTHED PATTERN ON TIRE EDGES
If you notice that your tires have a sawtoothed or feathered appearance around the edges, the likely cause is erratic rubbing against the road. That’s a sign that you may need an alignment.