5 Signs You Need New Tires

Man bent over next to car as he inspects the tire.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Inspect your tires monthly as damage isn't always obvious

Look for bulges, cracks, gouges, and uneven tread wear. Damage on the section of tire touching the ground can be easy to miss, so a full spin inspection by a mechanic is worth it if something looks off.

Low tread and under-inflation are serious safety risks

Use the penny test or wear bars to check tread depth; worn tires are more likely to blow out. Tires lose about 1 PSI per month (faster in cold weather), and rapid pressure loss in one tire can signal a crack or rim damage — while underinflated tires in summer heat flex more, wear faster, and increase blowout risk.

Don't ignore how your car feels on the road

Vibration or thumping while driving can point to unbalanced rear tires or suspension problems — and those issues become more dangerous at highway speeds. When it's time to replace tires, do so in pairs or all four at once for better traction and a safer ride.