Purchasing a New Set of Tires

Buying New Tires

At Affordable Auto Body we value the safety of our customers above all else. We want to ensure that you get to where you're going every time with a reliable and safe vehicle. A major problem area for the cars and trucks that come into Affordable Auto Body, are tires. Your tires are your connection to the road, and without them doing their job properly, all the handling development and safety testing that went into your car may not keep you safe. Here is some basic information on your tires and how to know when the time has come for replacements.

Why Are Old or Bad Tires Dangerous?

As mentioned earlier, your tires are a crucial part of your car or truck's overall safety. If you've ever lost control of a vehicle, you know how frightening it can be to feel helpless inside a two-ton machine. Driving on tires that are worn out, underinflated, unbalanced, or not suited for current weather conditions can seriously jeopardize your safety. Tires are engineered for specific purposes, and using them incorrectly can lead to sudden and potentially dangerous consequences.

Signs Your Tires Need Air

This issue is often easy to identify. If your tire looks wider where it meets the road, it's likely under-inflated and needs more air. Driving on under-inflated tires causes uneven pressure on the sidewalls, leading to faster wear, a higher risk of flats, and in extreme cases, the tire could even shred off the wheel. Additionally, low tire pressure reduces your vehicle's fuel efficiency. If you've ever ridden a bicycle with low tire pressure, you know how much harder it is to get moving and maintain speed, and the same concept applies to your car.

On the other hand, over-inflating your tires can also be dangerous. While it's rare for a tire to burst from hitting a pothole, excess air pressure reduces the size of the tire's contact patch - the area where the tire grips the road. This can result in reduced traction and control of your vehicle. Fortunately, every tire manufacturer prints the recommended tire pressure on the sidewall, making it easy to find the ideal pressure for your specific tires.

Signs Your Tires Are out of Tread

Just like over-inflated tires, worn tread can result in reduced control and poor handling for your car or truck. The tread patterns on your tires are designed to provide grip and channel water or mud away from the contact areas that need traction. When your tread depth is too low, your vehicle is at risk of hydroplaning, where the tires ride on top of the water, leading to a total loss of control. While there are common ways to measure tread depth, like using a penny to check if it's time for new tires, we recommend visiting Affordable Auto Body in Warwick, RI for a professional evaluation. Not all tires are the same, and their replacement timing can vary depending on the type.

Signs Your Tires Are Damaged

There are several ways to detect tire damage. A visual inspection can help spot potential issues before they become serious, such as nails or rocks lodged in the tread. Keep in mind that your tires hold a significant amount of pressure, so if you notice any gashes, bubbles, or hear a hissing sound of air escaping, it's best to avoid the tire and contact a professional. A tire blowout is not something you want to experience up close.

Tire damage can also be felt while driving. If your vehicle starts making unusual noises or the handling suddenly worsens, pull over as soon as it's safe to do so. Continuing to drive on a damaged or flat tire can cause even more significant problems for your vehicle, so it's important to address the issue right away.

What Can and Cannot Be Repaired

Tires can be costly, so we always look for safe repair options to help you save money. In many cases, small punctures can be both plugged and patched for a reliable fix, but sometimes a tire is beyond repair. If the puncture is located on the outer edge of the tire, outside of the tread area, it's likely unsafe to fix. Similarly, if the tire has been driven on while flat, the sidewall may have weakened, making the tire no longer safe to use. Each manufacturer provides guidelines on what can and cannot be repaired, so it's important to follow these recommendations.

At Affordable Auto Body, customer safety is our number one priority. We hope you'll be a little safer with this information. If you'd like to talk about whether your tires may need inspection or replacement, call us at 401-736-8501 or visit us at 96 Evergreen Ave in Warwick, RI. Happy travels!

We carry a wide selection of top tire brands to suit various driving needs and vehicle types. Our inventory includes many of the industry's leading brands, ensuring you get the best performance, safety, and durability for your vehicle. Below are some of the trusted brands we recommend to our customers for their proven reliability and quality.

At Affordable Auto Body, we're here to help you find the perfect new set of tires for your vehicle. With our wide selection and expert installation, you can trust us to keep you safe on the road. Visit us today or give us a call to schedule your tire service and enjoy a smoother, more reliable ride!