TIRES 101

Maintaining your tires means maintaining your vehicle. As the first line of defense between you and the road, having reliable tires is crucial to vehicle safety. Especially with the unpredictability of West Michigan weather, construction season, and potholes, having tires with sufficient tread is critical for navigating any road conditions. In this Berger 101 lesson, we’re focusing on all things tires! We’ll discuss when to replace them, how to check your tread, why replacing your tires is important, and Berger’s Buy 3, Get 1 for $1 Tire Sale.

When to Replace Your Tires

Thinking about replacing your tires? Start by checking your vehicle’s owner manual for tire replacement recommendations. Chevrolet typically recommends replacing your tires every six years or if your tread shows wear sooner. We’ll talk more about tread depth later on! Other signs that can alert you that it’s time to replace your tires are uneven wear patterns, bulges in the tire’s sidewall, consistent low tire pressure, and vibration while driving. While it’s important to keep an eye out for reduced traction or other signs, the best way to know when to replace your tires is by checking the tread depth.

How to Check Your Tire Tread

If you think it might be time for a new set of tires but aren’t sure, here are a few ways that you can check for yourself. The most accurate way to determine how much tread your tires have left is by using a tread depth gauge. A tread depth gauge measures in 32nds of an inch. To use one, start by resetting the gauge to 0/32 by placing it against a flat surface. Then place the pin into the middle of the tread groove of your tire and push down until the base hits the tread. Carefully remove the gauge, making sure not to touch the measuring pin. Record the measurement on the gauge, then repeat the process at least two more times in different areas on the same tire. This helps you get a more accurate reading because tires can wear unevenly. Average the readings together, and you have your remaining tread level! If the tread averages 6/32” or higher, then the tire’s tread depth is sufficient. Between 5/32” and 3/32”, you should consider replacing your tires based on road conditions. 2/32” or less, your tires are considered legally bald and should be replaced immediately.

If you don’t have a tread depth gauge at home, you can also use a coin to check your tire’s tread level! Using a penny or a quarter, place the coin in the tread with Lincoln’s or Washington’s head facing down and toward you. If you are using a penny, you should not be able to see Lincoln’s full head or the space above his head. If you can, your tread is below 2/32” and should be replaced immediately. If you are using a quarter and the tread touches the top of Washington’s head, then you have approximately 4/32” of tread. This level of tread is not ideal for wet road conditions, so you should start looking to replace your tires. If you can see space above his head, then it’s time to replace it! Similar to the tread depth gauge, always make sure to conduct these tests several times on different placements of the tire.

Why Replace Your Tires

The biggest “why” for keeping up with the traction of your tires and replacing them when necessary is for your safety! Having well-inflated and updated tires can help improve the overall handling and traction of your vehicle, especially when driving in road conditions where hydroplaning could be a risk. Keeping up with your tires can also help enhance your vehicle’s fuel efficiency! Tires with the right amount of pressure, low rolling resistance, and the correct alignment allow your vehicle to work more efficiently, conserving your fuel.

Our favorite “why” for replacing your tires, though, is that at Berger, you can buy three tires and get one for just $1 on a set of four tires with installation. You heard that right! Upgrading your tires has never been easier or more cost-effective. If you think it’s time to replace your tires, contact Berger’s Service Department! Our team will confirm your tire’s tread depth and help you find the right set of tires for you and your vehicle. Contact our team at (616) 949-6344, schedule your appointment online, or start shopping for tires on our website today!

Buy 3, get 1 for $1 on select tires with installation