How Extreme Summer Heat Affects Your Car’s Tires and How to Tell if You Need to Replace Them
Eww Wee, it’s hot! And it doesn’t look at if it’s going to end anytime soon. In fact, we in Lancaster are under yet another heat advisory today and Wednesday. So, it’s obvious: Summer is here! And with it comes the scorching heat that can have a significant impact on your vehicle, especially your tires. So in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Lancaster discuss how high temperatures affect your tires and how to know it’s time to replace them to ensure your safety on the road.
The Impact of Extreme Heat on Your Car or Truck Tires
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Increased Tire Pressure:
- Heat Expansion: As the temperature rises, the air inside your tires expands. And this causes an increase in tire pressure. In fact, for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit rise in temperature, tire pressure can increase by about 1-2 psi (pounds per square inch). And, overinflated tires can lead to uneven wear and reduced traction.
- Risk of Blowouts: Excessively high tire pressure can increase the risk of blowouts, especially if your tires are already worn or damaged. And these dangerous blowouts can lead to accidents, especially at high speeds.
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Accelerated Wear and Tear:
- Rubber Degradation: High temperatures can cause the rubber in your tires to degrade faster. And this can lead to cracking, bulging, and even tread separation. Also, the heat can also make the rubber more pliable. And this can increase the rate at which your tires wear down.
- Increased Friction: Hot pavement creates more friction between the road and your tires. And this additional friction can cause the tread to wear out more quickly, reducing the lifespan of your tires.
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Decreased Tire Performance:
- Reduced Traction: As the rubber degrades and the tread wears down, your tires’ ability to grip the road decreases. And this can affect your vehicle’s handling and braking performance, making it more challenging to drive safely.
How to Tell if You Need to Replace Your Tires
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Tread Depth:
- Check the Tread Depth: The easiest way to check your tread depth is by using a penny: insert the penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. And if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires. Because for optimal safety you should consider replacing your tires when they reach 4/32 of an inch.
- Tread Wear Indicators: Many tires come with built-in tread wear indicators. And these are raised sections within the tread grooves that become flush with the tire’s surface when the tread depth is too low.
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Visible Damage:
- Inspect for Cracks and Bulges: Look for any visible cracks, cuts, or bulges on the sidewalls and tread surface. Because, these can be signs of structural damage, which can lead to tire failure.
- Check for Uneven Wear: Uneven wear patterns can indicate issues with your vehicle’s alignment, suspension, or tire pressure. So, if you notice uneven wear, it’s a good idea to have your tires inspected by the professionals at Meineke in Lancaster.
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Age of the Tires:
- Check the Manufacturing Date: Tires have a finite lifespan when it comes to their age; you can tell by the date code on the sidewall that indicates when they were manufactured. And most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 6-10 years.
- Consider the Environment: Our climate has been unusually hot. And this could cause your tires to age faster. So, make sure you regularly inspect them for signs of aging and replace them if necessary.
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Performance Issues:
- Notice Handling Changes: Have you noticed changes in how your vehicle handles, such as increased vibrations, pulling to one side, or reduced traction? Well then, it could be a sign that your tires are worn out and need replacing.
- Monitor Tire Pressure: Frequent loss of tire pressure can indicate internal damage. So, check your tire pressure regularly and investigate any persistent issues.
Enjoy the Summer Knowing Your Tires are Fit for the Heat. Meineke Can Help.
Extreme summer heat can take a toll on your car’s tires. But, by staying vigilant and proactive, you can ensure your safety on the road and enjoy a worry-free summer driving experience. However, if you have any concerns about your tires, don’t hesitate to consult with the tire professionals at Meineke in Lancaster.
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