Nobody likes dipping into savings for a new set of tires. However, you can make the most of your tires and delay replacement with routine maintenance. How often should you have your tires serviced? What kind of services do your tires require? The local mechanics at Chapel Hill Tire are here with insight.
How Often Do I Need My Tires Rotated?
Answer: Most vehicles require tire rotations every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or every six months.
Your ideal tire rotation schedule will depend on a few factors, including your driving frequency, local road conditions, tire quality, and driving patterns.
Front tires experience extra friction with every twist and turn on the road. Additionally, the front of your car tends to carry a more consistent weight from the engine. Collectively, these factors cause your front tires to wear out more quickly than your rear tires. By regularly rotating your tires, you can help them wear more evenly.
When Should I Replace My Tires?
Answer: When the tread depth reaches 2/32 of an inch of thickness or when your tire otherwise indicates replacement needs. There are three circumstances when you need to get your tires replaced:
- Worn tire tread: Once your tires reach 2/32 of an inch of tread depth, you will need a new set installed. The low tire tread will leave your car vulnerable on the road—delaying braking and challenging your handling. You can read our complete guide to tire tread depth here.
- Old tires: Old rubber is stiff, leading to tire blowouts and catastrophic car accidents. In fact, other countries have banned tires with rubber older than ten years. You can read our complete guide to tire age here.
- Other tire damage: Extreme punctures, sidewall damage, and other tire issues can require replacement—regardless of tire age or tread depth.
When Do I Need Tire Patching Service?
Answer: As-Needed
You only need tire patching service when your rubber has been punctured by something like a nail, screw, or another road hazard. There are a few ways to tell when you need this service, including:
- Consistently or unusually low pressure in a single tire
- Visible signs of a puncture (such as the sight of a nail in your tire)
- A tire that won’t stay inflated
- Poor fuel economy
Most tire patching services are quick and simple. However, you will need tire replacement services if the damage is beyond a minor puncture.
Please note that tires can be incredibly challenging to patch on your own. Thankfully, with Chapel Hill Tire’s Drive Happy Advantage, tire patching services are free for all tires purchased in our shops.
How Often Should I Have My Tires Aligned?
Answer: As-needed
You only need your tires aligned when they are thrown off-center. Misalignment can be caused by rocky terrains, suspension changes, and rough driving patterns. You might need a tire alignment if you notice your steering wheel shaking or pulling to one side of the road.
When Do I Need Tire Balancing Service?
Answer: By manufacturer recommendation.
Much like tire alignment, most cars only need balancing service when an issue arises. However, some tire manufacturers recommend having your tires balanced once a year or at specific intervals. A mechanic will use small weights to even the load distribution of a tire/wheel to ensure smooth and even rotation.
How Often Should I Inspect My Tires?
Answer: Every month
Experts will inspect your tires during every routine service visit. However, there is no such thing as checking your tires too much. Whether daily, weekly, or monthly, taking a quick glance at your tires can help you catch problems early and prevent more significant issues. Look for:
- Low tire pressure
- Sidewall damage
- Oxidizing rubber
- Uneven tire wear
Tire Services Near Me at Chapel Hill Tire
When your tire needs service, our local mechanics have you covered! We proudly serve the greater Triangle area with 11 locations across Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham. We invite you to make an appointment or call us to get started today!
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