Tires & Tire Service: When Should You Change Your Tires?
Park Automotive Tire Service
Knowing which tires are best for you, and understanding the differences between them, is what makes Park Automotive the best place to call. Our tire experts take the guess work out of buying new tires. Knowledge is the key to helping you shop not only within your budget but understanding what is best for you and your vehicle.
Proper inflation and regular tire rotations can extend the life of your tires and are crucial for your vehicle’s handling and safety. We check your tire pressure and tread wear as part of every Park Automotive Service, no matter what auto repair or maintenance service you’ve booked in for.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I SERVICE MY VEHICLE’S TIRES?
Tires should be rotated every 8,000 – 12,000 km or as recommended in your owner’s manual. Tires typically need to be replaced anywhere from 40,000 – 80,000 km, depending on the tire, driving style, and conditions.
Ensuring you have even tire wear is a crucial to extending the life of your tires. Front tires can wear faster than back tires due to weight differences and the way you drive. Tire rotations help ensure that your tires wear evenly and extend their life and the time between new tire purchases.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU NEED NEW TIRES?
Tires with treads worn down to the same level as the tread wear indicator (1.5 mm or 2/32 of an inch in depth) need to be replaced. A tire must be replaced when the tread wears even with the tread wear indicator. You can determine your tread depth by using the following best practices:
- Use a tire tread depth gauge for a precise measurement.
- Take the Canadian nickel test: If the top of Queen Elizabeth’s crown is covered, your tread is deeper than 2/32”.
- Take the Canadian Quarter Test: If the caribou’s nose is covered, your tire tread is deeper than 6/32”.
If you suspect that your tires are at below depth thresholds, or see signs of any sidewall damage (cracks, blisters, punctures), stop by Park Automotive to get expert help with your tire needs. Should you need new tires, we have multiple brands to choose from, and one of our highly skilled experts will be happy to help find the right fit for you.