Cruising down the highway, tunes blasting, not a care in the world. Then you hear it - that worrisome rumble. You've got a flat. Again. Time for new tires, but confusion sets in at the sight of all the options. We're here to help you buy smart when it's time for new rubber.
Comparison Shop Without the Legwork
In the market for new tires? We take the hassle out of comparing options. Our tire experts evaluate top brands to identify the best value picks for your vehicle. Just share your year, make, and model - we'll handle the rest.
Decode the Details
Tire specs can be tricky to decipher, but we've got you covered. We’ll explain treadwear ratings, speed ratings, load indexes, and all those numbers and letters so you understand exactly what you're getting. No more mystery specs.
Prioritize Safety and Longevity
Buying tires isn't just about looks or price. Ensure you get quality rubber that grips the road, performs well in all conditions, and lasts for the long haul. Our experts only recommend tires that pass stringent safety and durability testing.
Take Precautions to Avoid Flats
Rotate tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to reduce uneven wear. Check pressure monthly - improper inflation causes blowouts. Inspect tread depth regularly and replace tires before they're dangerously worn. And keep tires properly aligned to optimize performance.
Extend Tire Life with Proper Maintenance
Want your tires to last? Adopt these habits: Avoid curbs and potholes that can damage wheels and treads. Refrain from sudden acceleration and hard braking which deteriorates rubber. And balance your vehicle's load to minimize uneven wear. Preventative care pays off.
Being tire smart means understanding specs, prioritizing safety, practicing preventative maintenance, and trusting experts to simplify selection. With these tips, you can cruise confidently knowing your tires will hold strong for the long haul.
What’s your top tip for spotting tire trouble before it strands you roadside? Share your advice for staying ahead of potential tire issues. Shop: https://www.hidnation.com/collections/tires
You can refer to the United States department of Transportation if you wish https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/tires
FAQs on tire safety and maintenance
Q. How often should I rotate my tires?
Rotate tires every 6,000-8,000 miles to prevent uneven wear. Follow a front-to-back rotation pattern to extend tread life. Neglecting rotations means tires wear out faster.
Q. What is the proper tire pressure and why is it important?
Check your owner’s manual or the tire sidewall to find the recommended pressure. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer. Underinflation causes blowouts while overinflation reduces traction.
Q. How do I check my tire tread depth?
Insert a penny upside down into several tread grooves. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tires are dangerously worn and need replacement. Always replace tires before they reach 2/32”.
Q. What’s the best way to avoid flats and tire damage?
Avoid potholes, curbs, and debris which can cause punctures, bubbles, and other tire damage. Inspect tires regularly for cuts and abrasions and have a shop repair promptly.
Q. Should I replace just one tire or all four?
It’s best to replace all four tires at once for optimal performance and safety. If not possible, replace in pairs - front or rear. Avoid mixing tread depths.
Q. How can I extend the lifespan of my tires?
Rotate regularly, maintain proper inflation and alignment, avoid sudden braking, refrain from overloading the vehicle, and store tires properly when not in use. Practice preventive maintenance.
Q. How do I know when to replace a tire due to age?
Tires degrade over time even if tread looks fine. Generally, tires older than 6 years or unused for an extended time should be replaced. Check the DOT code on the tire sidewall.
Q. What is the ideal tire storage temperature?
Store tires in a cool, dry place away from electrical devices and sunlight, ideally around 68°F. Avoid temperature extremes which accelerate tire aging.
Q. Can I patch a sidewall tire puncture?
No. Punctures in the tire sidewall cannot safely be repaired. Sidewall flexing puts too much stress on a patch. These tires must be replaced.
Q. What maintenance tips will keep my car running smoothly?
Regular oil changes, tune-ups, battery and filter replacements, brake pad rotation, fluid checks, and cleaning important car components will optimize performance.