Tread, Traction and Spotting Faults in a Tire Inspection
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than 600 motor vehicle deaths every year stemming from tire-related crashes. Sadly, many of these could be prevented through simple tire inspection.All drivers schedule tire inspections on a regular basis. This can catch minor tread, traction, and other threats before they lead to catastrophe.This article covers some of the main checks done during a tire inspection. It covers what these entail and the types of issues they can catch. Keep reading to learn how these basic procedures can help lead to a safer driving experience for you and your family.
Age of the Tire
The first thing technicians will look at is the tire's age (if that information is accessible). If tires are more than a few years old, they are more likely to experience issues, no matter how few miles have been put on them.
Visual Inspection
The next phase of a tire inspection is to look for visible signs of damage or wear, including on the tread and sidewalls of the tire. Technicians will look for punctured, cut, or cracked tires. These can be the result of tacks, nails, or other sharp objects in the road, as well as normal wear and tear.They also will look for bulges. A bulge in tires is a sign of either tire damage or manufacturer defects. They also will look for visible signs of wear on the tire.Valve stems are a common area where issues can occur. They can become damaged, and rubber can more easily deteriorate in this area. The technician will ensure that is in good condition.
Tire Pressure Check
Next, the inspector will check the tire pressure, for both overinflation and underinflation. The former could be due to incorrect inflation information or faulty tire gauges. The latter can be a sign of leaks that went undetected during the visual inspection.
Measure Tread Depth
Technicians will measure the tread depth. If it is at or less than 2/32 of an inch, then it has insufficient grip and should be replaced.You can spot-check these yourself, by placing a coin into the groove of the tread. If the head of the president is completely visible, then the tread has been severely worn. However, experienced technicians will have tools that can measure the tread around every surface of your tire.
Alignment and Rotation
Finally, most inspections involve rotation and alignment adjustments. This is important to ensure more even wear on the tires. For instance, front tires usually wear more quickly on the outer edges, so swapping with the back tires places the ones with the most tread up front.
Find Quality Tire Inspection Near You
Now that you understand the importance of tire inspection and regular car maintenance for identifying issues with tread, traction, and other issues, you can have the confidence that your vehicle is ready for the road. An experienced technician can further advise on how to detect minor tire problems before they become major ones.Since 1982, Day Heights Auto Service has provided the highest quality automotive repairs in Milford, Loveland, and the surrounding areas. We offer a range of services, including tire inspection and repair.Reach out to us today to schedule an appointment.