If you experience any of the following issues during driving, it’s time to get your tires checked.

How do I really know when it’s time to change my tires?

Taking a look at your tire is the best way to diagnose tire wear, and there are many things to look for. One is tread depth. If the tire has reached the minimum depth of 2/32-inch depth, then by law you’ll need to change your tires. If you’re not sure how deep that is, you should be able to find a raised ridge inside of the grooves on your tread. If your tread is flush with these “wear bars” you should replace your tires.

I’ve noticed some irregular wear on my tires. What could be causing it?

Believe it or not, your tires are one of the best ways to optically discover a host of vehicle issues. Consistent wear on the inside or outside of a tire is usually an indication that your wheels are out of alignment, while consistent wear down both the inside and outside, or down the centre of the tire indicates under- and over-inflation. Cupping on the tread is a symptom of a wheel that is out of balance while patching can indicate a bent or worn-out suspension. If you see any irregular wear patterns it is best to have your car serviced before putting new tires on the vehicle only to have them ruined as well.

Does tire pressure really matter when it comes to fuel economy?

Inflation pressures play a large role on vehicle load, acceleration, braking, and cornering forces. A properly inflated tire can give you better mileage, more responsive steering and better ride all while saving you hundreds in fuel consumption. When the tread is too low or high, the contact patch on the tire can be compromised. Not using the tire’s optimal surface area will lead to irregular wear and compromised performance.

Are snow tires worth the money they cost?

In most regions of Canada, having winter tires is a must. While they’re typically called “snow tires”, they are more effective even on bare pavement in colder temperatures, due to their softer rubber compound. Your ability to brake and turn increases significantly when you have the right tires for the conditions, and winter tires will make your vehicle safer to operate for you, your passengers, and others on the road. Also, you’ll likely have to replace your tires at some point, so having a set of winter tires doesn’t cost too much more than having to purchase two sets of all season tires. The first time you need to stop quickly or swerve in cold weather conditions you’ll be glad you spent the money.