Lexus of Wilmington

Feb 23, 2022

It can be hard to spot signs of worn-out tires like worn treads, odd vibrations, and loss of air pressure. Read on to learn if you need new tires and why a Lexus dealer is the ideal place to get them.

Signs It’s Time for New Tires

Tread Levels

The tread of a tire is the part of the tire that connects with the road. It is comprised of grooves and divots designed for high traction capability. Over time the tread will wear down naturally. There are a couple of ways to determine if your tread is too low, but the best way is by simply measuring it.

Most automotive stores carry a tread depth checker designed to measure how deep your tread is, but you can even do this test with a simple penny. First, you must stick the penny into the treads of your tire. If no part of the tread is in contact with Lincoln’s head, then it’s time to replace those tires. If any piece of Lincoln’s head is touching the treads, then the treads are still intact and the tire does not need replacement.

Loss of Air Pressure

Air pressure is directly proportional to temperature. That’s why you may get a “low tire pressure” alert on a particularly cold day. But if you are experiencing loss of pressure consistently then it may be evidence of a slow leak.

Slow leaks can happen for a multitude of reasons. Driving over a nail, a sharp rock, a sharp piece of metal, or glass. Products like Fix-a-Flat can be used in a pinch for a temporary solution. Over time that adhesive will fail and it will be necessary to replace the tire with the leak.

Vibrations

Vibrations while driving can be due to uneven tire alignment, suspension issues, or plenty of other reasons. If you start to feel the vibrations at higher speeds, like driving on the highway, then it is a good sign you are in need of a tire alignment.

Whatever the cause may be, vibrations and uneven alignment can cause uneven tread wear. This will over time cause certain tires to be worn out faster than the rest.

Tire Replacement at a Lexus Dealer

Whether it’s bodywork, engine work, or tire replacements, getting work done at a dealer is the ideal choice. These dealers are staffed by trained professionals who know the ins and outs of a Lexus better than the backs of their own hands. Third-party dealers may have a tendency to use aftermarket parts that are not specifically designed for your car. Going to a certified dealer is the best place for peace of mind and assurance of quality.

Diligence is key when assessing your vehicle’s health. Odd vibrations, tire pressure alerts, and the appearance of the tires themselves are all key factors in the assessment. Beyond assessing, diligence is also key in the repair process and that’s where the experts come in. Call  Lexus of Wilmington now if you are concerned about your tires and need expert help with timely solutions.