WEAR BARS
Manufacturers also place tread wear indicators in the tread grooves. Replace your tires when the tread wears even with the wear bars.
THE BALD TRUTH
Remember, with bald tires you might not be able to stop in time to avoid an accident. Your vehicle is also more likely to hydroplane on bald tires—skid on standing water or slick pavement. Better to replace your tires when they wear to a tread groove depth of 4/32 inch or less. In most state, you must have at least 2/32 inch of tread to be legal. Here are some buying tips:
A new set of tires will repay you with better control, confidence, and in some cases improved gas mileage. For example, the Goodyear Assurance® Fuel Max tires can save enough over their lifetime to buy two new tires.*
There are as many replacement tires as there are cars, and they vary widely in terms of tread design, performance, and price. The pros at Tire Choice can help you select the right tire for your vehicle, including answering the question about the specifications that are molded into the sidewall of the tire.
SELECT A TIRE THAT MAKES THE GRADE
To help consumers compare tires, the federal government requires manufacturers to grade tires in three categories: treadwear rate, traction performance, and temperature resistance.**
If your daily commute racks up big mileage, pay special attention to the UTQG treadwear rating printed on the side of your tires. Choose a tire rated 300 or better.
If you often drive at highway speeds or tow a boat or trailer, the UTQG temperature rating is important. Overheated tires can cause blowouts. Select an A-rated tire.
*Up to 2,600 miles based on a 4% fuel economy improvement on 65,000-Mile Tread Life Limited Warranty, as compared to the standard Goodyear Assurance P195/65R15 size tire tested on 2008 Honda Civic. Actual results may vary depending on when tires are replaced, driving and road conditions, and proper tire maintenance.