Driving with bad tires can put you, your passengers, and other drivers at risk. If you want to keep yourself and others safe on the road, here are some warning signs of tire problems to watch out for.

Loss of Traction

Your tires are designed to help you get a solid grip on the road, but they can't help too much if they're old and worn out. If you've noticed you're having a tough time taking tight corners or staying put on the road when you're driving on slick surfaces, that's a good indicator that you need new tires.

Trouble Stopping

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, brake problems are the cause of about 22% of car accidents due to mechanical failure. However, brakes aren't the only factor affecting your vehicle's stopping power; your tires also play a major role. When your tires are worn down, it's harder for them to grip the road and bring your car to a stop. This can potentially lead to accidents.

Noisy Tires

Good tires should offer a quiet ride, so it may be time for a new set if your car is suddenly a lot louder on the road. If your tires are making loud enough noises that it's difficult to hear your passengers, you definitely need to replace them.

Low Tread

Tread gives your tires their grip, but it also wears down over time. You can test your tread by placing a penny in it with the top of Lincoln's head facing down. If the tread covers part of Lincoln's head, your tires should be good to go. Otherwise, it's time to invest in new ones.

Tire Age

Tires don't last forever, so you need to make sure you're replacing them when they're reaching the end of their expected life. You can check with your manufacturer to figure out how many miles your tires are rated for, but most people need new tires every six to 10 years.

Safety is the top priority on the road, and that starts with making sure you're taking care of your vehicle. Old tires can put you, your passengers, and other drivers in danger, so you should keep an eye on your tires and replace them when it's time. If you need new tires for your car or truck, give JKB Tire Co a call today!