When Do Tires Need to Be Changed?

Some repairs can be made to tires to keep them functioning properly. However, certain tire damage can only be fixed by changing the tire.

Unrepairable Area

• If a tire has damage to the sidewall, it needs to be changed. Only damage to the tire tread, such as a puncture from sharp glass or a nail, can be repaired without replacing the tire with a new one. However, if the tread is excessively worn, the tire should be changed, especially if the tread is peeling.

Flat Tire Considerations

• If your vehicle has a flat tire, the tire should be changed immediately. Driving on a flat tire can damage the wheel rim. Replace a flat with your vehicle's spare tire and install a properly-sized tire on the vehicle as soon as possible. (Most spares now are smaller tires for emergency use only). Remember that most spare tires have a limit as to the top speed the vehicle can be driven while the spare is used. This speed is normally listed on the sidewall of the spare.

Staying Prepared

• Make certain you always carry a tire jack and tire wrench, along with a spare tire, in your car trunk. Make certain that the tire wrench is not stripped and can properly grip the wheel nuts.