Check Your Tire Knowledge

tires in Mississauga, ON

When to Replace Tires

Replacement guidelines vary by brand, but most drivers will replace their tires every four-six years due to regular driving. How long your tires last depend on multiple factors, such as how frequently you drive, environmental conditions, and the tire's engineering.

You should replace tires when the tread is under 4/32". If you're not sure the tread level, try inserting a 25c coin upside down into one of the grooves. If the caribou's nose tip is showing, it means you're under 6/32" and should replace the tires soon. In the event you notice irregular tire wear or bumps and bulges, you should have the tires replaced.

Should a puncture occur, you might be able to save your tires through a tire repair shop, but this will depend on the location and extent of the damage.

When in doubt, have a tire technician inspect your tire and provide guidance.

How to Choose New Tires

Tires need to be the right dimension for your vehicle make and model. The right tire size is indicated on the driver's side door in some vehicle makes and model. Otherwise, check the owner's manual.

Depending on where you drive, a certain brand and type of tire may be more beneficial than another. For example, if you have an off-road truck, you might look at all-terrain tires or mud-terrain tires that meet your off-road needs. If noise is a concern, you might look for a brand that promotes quiet tires. If you've experienced one flat too many in the past, a run-flat tire may provide the peace of mind you need should a road hazard strike. Don't forget to look for tire rebates. This is a great way to purchase a set at a more economical price.

Ideally, you should purchase new, matching tires in a set of four. At the least, have matching groups of two on each axle.

The Tire Installation Process

During installation, your tires and wheels should be balanced and your vehicle's wheel alignment inspected. An imbalance between the tire and its wheel can expedite tire wear and cause vibrations while you drive. If your vehicle is our of alignment, it can also increase the rate of wear or cause irregular wear. At the time of installation, a technician should check the lug nuts, valve stems, brake caliper clearance, and overall positioning of each tire/wheel assembly to ensure everything looks good.

How to Practice Tire Maintenance

You expect a new set of tires to last for the advertised mileage. However, tire manufacturers expect you to do your part with tire maintenance to meet that expectation. Routine maintenance will keep your tires performing safer for longer. In addition, every 6 months or 10,000-13,000 kilometers, you should have a tire rotation performed to spread wear evenly across the set. Finally, make sure to check your tire pressure regularly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.

The more you know about tires, the better you'll be able to properly maintain them and enjoy them for driving advntures to come.

If you have any questions about shopping for tires or servicing tires, contact Tires 23. We're happy to answer your questions.

Bridgestone Tires Firestone Tires

Send »           

Stay Connected

5391 Ambler Drive Unit 2,
Mississauga, ON L4W 1H1
Fax: (905) 602-6181
25 Heritage Road Unit 2,
Markham, ON L3P 1M3
Fax:
Powered by Net Driven
Login