Whether it’s a zippy Sentra or a robust Pathfinder, driving a Nissan brings a sense of style and reliability. However, no matter how well you maintain your vehicle, there comes a time when your tires need replacing. Recognizing when it’s time for new tires is crucial for your safety and your Nissan’s performance. Here’s how to tell when it’s time to head to your Nissan dealership for a fresh set of wheels.
Check the Tread Depth
It’s easy to tell that you need a new set of tires if your tread depth is too low. Use the “penny test.” Insert a penny into the tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch, and it’s time to replace those tires. Tread depth is vital for proper traction, and low tread depth reduces your Nissan’s ability to grip the road, especially in wet conditions.
Visible Tread Wear Indicators
Modern tires come with built-in tread wear indicators. Look for flat rubber bars running perpendicular to the direction of the tread. These indicators are specifically designed to show when the tires have reached their wear limit: if the bars are flush with your tires’ tread, it’s time for a replacement. Ignoring them can compromise your vehicle’s braking and handling.
Bulges, Gouges, or Cracks
The condition of your tire’s sidewall is just as important as the tread, so inspect them for any bulges, gouges, or cracks. These can be signs that your tires are failing. Damage to the sidewall can be dangerous; it weakens your tire and may lead to a blowout while driving.
Excessive Vibration
While some vibration is normal, especially when the roads are rough, excessive vibration through the steering wheel or body of your car can indicate tire issues. This type of vibration may be a sign of misaligned or unbalanced tires, or it could mean your tires are damaged internally.
Aging Tires
Tires have a lifespan, even if they look okay. Over time, the rubber in tires deteriorates, which can lead to reduced performance and put your safety at risk. The general rule is to replace your tires every six years, regardless of the tread depth. Check your tire’s manufacturing date on the sidewall.
Visit Your Nissan Dealership for New Tires
The technicians at the dealership are specifically trained to handle Nissan vehicles. We can ensure the right tires are chosen for your specific model, check your wheel alignment, and tire balancing, and take a look at your car’s overall health before we send you back on the road.
If you’ve noticed it’s time to replace those tires, don’t delay. Visit Courtesy Nissan PA to have your tires inspected today.
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