Your new or used Kia’s trusty tires ensure smooth rides and safe stops over miles and miles of pavement. But how do you know when it’s time to give them a well-deserved retirement? Here are a few tips from our tire experts at your local Kia dealership in Salisbury, NC about what to keep an eye out for.
Tread Depth: The Penny Detective
This is a simple trick to check your tread depth: if you stick a penny in a tire groove and all of Lincoln’s head is visible, your tires are close to throwing in the towel. The legal minimum in most places is 2/32 of an inch, but 4/32 or deeper is best for optimal performance and safety, especially in rainy or snowy conditions. Remember, bald tires = bad grip = potential disaster.
Uneven Wear
Ever feel like your Kia’s doing the shimmy on the highway? Uneven tire wear could be the culprit. This can happen due to misalignment, improper inflation, or simply the natural aging process. Check your tires for cupping, which are uneven dips and bumps, or feathering, which look like thin edges like feathers on the tire.
Age Matters, Even for Rubber
Even if they look okay, the rubber in your tires degrades over time, losing its flexibility and grip. As a general rule, consider replacing your tires after five or six years, regardless of tread depth.
Leaks and Bulges
Listen up, because this is serious: if your tires are losing air like a punctured balloon, or you spot any suspicious bulges or sidewall cracks, don’t drive on those tires. Leaks and bulges indicate internal damage, potentially leading to blowouts, which can be downright scary. A slow leak you can drive on for a while, but if it’s a big one, it’s not safe. Park it, call a tow truck, and get those tires replaced ASAP.
Wobble and Squeal
Does your Kia feel sluggish on acceleration, pull to one side while braking, or let out a chorus of squeals when cornering? These could be signs of worn or damaged tires struggling to do their job. Don’t ignore these performance warnings. A new set of tires might be the upgrade your driving experience needs.
Bonus Tip: TPMS Talk
Most Kias have a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) that lights up if your tires are underinflated. Don’t just ignore the warning! Low tire pressure can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and even wear your tires unevenly. Properly inflated tires means a happy and healthy Kia.
Just keep an eye on your tread depth, age, and overall performance, and you’ll know when your Kia is crying out for new tires. Remember, worn tires are a safety hazard, so don’t hesitate to come in to see us here at Randy Marion Kia when you need to replace them.
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.