How to Know It’s Time for New Tires

At Advanced Tire & Auto Service in Arlington, TX, we know that tires are more than just rubber—they’re the foundation of your vehicle’s safety and performance. Unfortunately, many drivers wait too long to replace them, risking not just a rough ride, but their safety on the road. Whether you're commuting daily or planning a weekend getaway, knowing when to replace your tires is one of the smartest things you can do to protect yourself, your passengers, and your investment.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the key signs that it’s time for new tires, why tire maintenance matters, and how we at Advanced Tire & Auto Service can help keep you driving with confidence throughout Arlington and beyond.

Why Tire Health Should Be a Top Priority

Tires are the only part of your car that makes direct contact with the road. That means their condition directly affects traction, braking distance, fuel efficiency, and even how well your suspension performs. If your tires are worn out, underinflated, or misaligned, every system in your car has to work harder—putting you at risk for avoidable damage and higher repair costs.

Here in Arlington, TX, the weather and roads can be tough on tires. Extreme summer heat can wear down treads faster, while potholes and uneven surfaces increase your chances of sidewall damage or alignment issues. That’s why regular inspections and timely replacements are crucial—and why we take tire care seriously at Advanced Tire & Auto Service.

Top Signs You Need New Tires

Let’s break down the most common signs that your tires might be due for replacement:

1. Low Tread Depth

The legal minimum tread depth is 2/32 of an inch—but waiting until your tires reach that point is a safety gamble. Use the penny test: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.

2. Cracks or Bulges

If you notice sidewall cracks, deep cuts, or bubbles in the rubber, that’s a red flag. These can be caused by impact damage or dry rot and often indicate the tire is at risk of a blowout.

3. Uneven Wear

Are your tires wearing out more on one side than the other? That could be a sign of poor alignment, suspension issues, or unbalanced tires—all of which reduce the life of your tires and compromise handling.

4. Excessive Road Noise

If your tires have become noticeably louder, especially at highway speeds, it might be due to uneven tread wear or internal separation. Either way, it’s worth getting checked.

5. Frequent Air Pressure Loss

If you’re constantly refilling air, you may have a slow leak from a puncture, cracked rim, or degraded rubber. Even small leaks can lead to big problems on the road.

Why Tire Age Also Matters

Even if your tire tread looks fine, age can still be a factor. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every six years—regardless of mileage—and never going more than 10 years. Rubber naturally degrades over time, especially in the Texas heat. At Advanced Tire & Auto Service, we check your tire's DOT code to determine its age and recommend replacements if the integrity is compromised.

How We Help You Choose the Right Tires

At Advanced Tire & Auto Service in Arlington, TX, we don’t just sell tires—we guide you through the buying process to make sure you get the right set for your driving style, vehicle type, and budget. We stock a wide selection of top-tier brands and offer expert advice to help you choose tires that match your needs—whether you’re focused on performance, longevity, fuel economy, or comfort.

Our ASE-certified technicians ensure proper installation, balancing, and alignment so your tires wear evenly and perform at their best. We also back our work with a 24-month/24,000-mile Certified Auto Repair warranty, giving you peace of mind long after you leave the shop.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Tire Life

Replacing tires can be a big investment—but proper care helps you get the most out of them. Here’s how we recommend extending tire life:

• Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles
  This promotes even wear and improves performance.
• Check air pressure monthly
  Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s specs.
• Inspect tread and sidewalls
  Catch early signs of damage before they become dangerous.
• Schedule alignments as needed
  Especially if you notice pulling, vibration, or uneven wear.
• Avoid overloading your vehicle
  Extra weight increases heat and pressure on your tires.

When you bring your car to Advanced Tire & Auto Service, we’ll walk through these maintenance steps with you and help create a plan that fits your vehicle and driving habits.

When in Doubt, Let Us Take a Look

If you’re unsure whether your tires are still safe, it’s better to have them inspected sooner rather than later. At Advanced Tire & Auto Service, we offer free tire inspections for all domestic vehicles. We’ll assess tread depth, sidewall condition, air pressure, and alignment to give you a clear picture of your tires’ condition and make honest recommendations—no pressure, just reliable advice from your local experts in Arlington, TX.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when to replace your tires isn’t always obvious—but it’s one of the most important things you can do to stay safe and protect your investment. By watching for common wear signs and partnering with a trusted shop like Advanced Tire & Auto Service in Arlington, TX, you can drive confidently on tires that are ready for anything the road throws your way.