Question: How can I tell when my tires are worn so much that they need to be replaced?
Hi-Tech Car Care Answer:
That is an important question for Phoenix car owners. As we discuss the matter, keep in mind that one of the vital jobs of your tire tread is to move water. The channels in the tread act as passages for water to escape from underneath the tire. The deeper the tread, the deeper the channel – and the more water that can be evacuated.
When enough water can’t be moved from underneath the tire, the tire can ride on the water – often called hydroplaning. The tire is literally not contacting the road but rather is “floating” on the water so there is little traction and the sedan can slide.
So somewhere between a brand new tire and a bald tire lies the point at which the tire should be replaced. Some governmental jurisdictions have minimum tread depth requirements for motorists – others do not. So check the vital laws where you live in AZ to learn the legal minimum.
Tire manufacturers are required to mold a tread wear bar into the tire. This bar appears across the tread when the tire is worn down to 1.6 mm (2/32 of an inch). Phoenix drivers can easily do the quarter test. Insert a 25-cent coin into one of the grooves with the caribou’s head pointing down. If you can see the tip of the nose of this great northern animal, it is a sign of very worn treads. That means it is high time to bid adieu to your tires.
Studies have shown, however, that there is an important difference in stopping distances for motorists in dangerous wet Phoenix conditions with tires that have less wear. For example, in controlled, wet conditions a vehicle with 3.18 mm (4/32 of an inch) of tread traveling at freeway speeds was able to stop in about 26 metres (85 feet) less distance than the same car with tires with 1.6 mm (2/32 of an inch) of tread. That could easily be the difference between a safe stop and hitting the sedan in front of you.
Phoenix drivers can gauge 3.18 mm (4/32 of an inch) by inserting a US quarter upside down into the tread. If it covers George Washington’s head, you have more than 3.18 mm (4/32 of an inch) of tread.
New tires are a big ticket item for Phoenix motorists so it’s natural to want to get as much value out of them as possible. Just remember that a huge part of that value is the ability to stop safely in wet Phoenix conditions. You can meet with with your appreciative Hi-Tech Car Care tire professional for help with tire replacement.
Give us a call
Hi-Tech Car Care
2924 E Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85016
602.224.0941
At Hi-Tech Car Care in Phoenix AZ (85016) we install quality NAPA replacement parts. Give us a call at 602.224.0941. To learn more about NAPA AutoCare, visit NAPAAutoCare.com .
