Top 5 Signs It’s Time for New Tires
Sabrinna Kozera • August 25, 2025
So how do you know when it’s time for new tires? Here are five signs to watch for:
1. Low Tread Depth
If your tread looks worn down, your tires may not grip the road properly. An easy test: place a penny in the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, your tread is too low... It's time to replace.
2. Uneven Wear Patterns
Bald spots, edges that wear faster than the middle, or a “cupped” pattern can all indicate alignment or suspension issues. Not only do you need new tires, but you’ll also want us to check what’s causing the uneven wear.
3. Cracks, Bulges, or Blisters
If you see cracks in the sidewall, bulges, or bubbles, it’s a serious red flag. These weak spots can lead to blowouts, especially at highway speeds.
4. Excessive Vibration
Some vibration is normal, but if your steering wheel shakes more than usual, your tires may be worn or damaged. It could also signal an issue with your alignment or suspension that should be checked right away.
5. Age of the Tires
Even if your tread looks fine, tires naturally degrade over time. Most manufacturers recommend replacement every six years, no matter the mileage, to ensure safety.
Empower Automotive: Your Tire Experts in Traverse City
At Empower Automotive, we don’t just sell you tires, we help you choose the right ones for your vehicle and driving needs. From daily commuting to long Michigan road trips, we’ll make sure you get the best traction, performance, and value. Plus, we can align your wheels and check your brakes at the same time to keep everything rolling smoothly.
Schedule your tire check today We’ll let you know exactly where your tires stand and help you plan for replacement before it becomes a bigger (and more expensive) problem.
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What Is Tire Alignment? Alignment means adjusting the angles of your wheels so they meet your car maker’s specs. It’s all about how your tires hit the road — and when they’re off, small issues can lead to big problems. How Misalignment Happens Your alignment can shift over time from: • Hitting potholes or curbs • Normal wear and tear • Suspension parts wearing out Why It Matters 👉 Tire Wear Poor alignment causes uneven tire wear. That means you’ll have to replace your tires sooner — and tires aren’t cheap. 👉 Fuel Economy Misaligned tires create extra drag. Your engine works harder, and you end up spending more at the pump. 👉 Steering & Safety When your alignment is off, your car might pull to one side or feel unstable, especially at higher speeds. That can make emergency maneuvers harder and increase your stopping distance. How to Know If You Need an Alignment Watch for signs like: • Car pulls to the left or right • Crooked steering wheel when driving straight • Uneven or rapid tire wear • Steering feels loose When to Check Alignment • After hitting a big pothole or curb • When you get new tires • If you notice any of the signs above • As part of regular maintenance (we recommend once a year) Your alignment does more than keep your ride smooth — it helps you get the most from your tires, keeps you safer, and saves money in the long run. 👉 If you’re not sure about your alignment, let’s take a look. Book a free alignment check with your next service or call us today.
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Protect your engine with timely oil changes at Empower Automotive in Traverse City, MI. Schedule your oil change today and keep your vehicle running smoothly.
