Muscle Cars
Your Tires Have Something to Say
As much as muscle cars can make hearts race, they are still only as good as their tires. It’s important for any car owner to keep an eye on their tires and be ready if their tires have something to say. They can’t talk, but they can still tell you plenty.
If you love a speedy ride, you’ll want to know what the tires are warning you about. After all, you want your car to be in good condition so that it can own the road. That’s why you like muscle cars.
Cracking the Tire Code
To understand your tires, you’ve got to learn what they should look like and compare that to any changes. That’s because your tires can tell you if your suspension is out of alignment. They can warn you about steering issues that could cause costly and even deadly mistakes. Your tires can warn you when they are off track and need corrective action.
Bulges or Tears
If you see either of these problems, there’s a good chance your tire could blow. You’d better get it replaced.
Wobble, Wobble
A wobbly tire is also about to blow. There’s no time to waste here. It needs to be replaced quickly. Often this feels like a steering problem. If in doubt, have someone drive alongside you and watch for the wobble. They will probably spot it!
Patches
When you see patches, it indicates that your tires should be rotated more regularly. Be aware that if a tire has gone beyond patchy to bald spots, it needs to be replaced.
Feathered Edges
Your tire may start to have a feathered edge. This is telling you to get a wheel alignment. Either it’s one tire that has angled too far in or out. Or, it could be the whole car that needs realignment. Either way, be glad you were paying attention.
Center Wears Out
If you notice the center of your tire or tires is wearing out faster than the rest, that’s a sign of over-inflation. Check your car manual and make sure your tires match that. Remember summer and winter inflation amounts may be different.
Sides Wear Out
When both sides of the tire are looking more worn than the center, that indicates that there isn’t enough inflation. Check the manual and add air accordingly.
Inside-Edge Wear Only
If only the inside edge is showing wear, you need your suspension checked. It is likely to be a problem with the bushings or springs. A wheel alignment is needed at a minimum.
Outer Edge Wear Only
Performance driving can lead to wearing out the outer edge of a tire. It’s that quick cornering. However, if you notice it, make sure to have your mechanic keep an eye on your suspension and shocks. Consider getting your tires rotated and balanced.
Scalloped Wear
Cupping or scalloped wear is a very bad sign. When tires aren’t damped properly, they are taking the brunt force of the car’s weight too often. This may be a problem with the suspension or struts. It could be a bent connection or worn-out shock absorbers. Your car will last longer if this problem is caught and corrected.
Sell Your Car
Sometimes your tires are telling you it’s time to sell your car. At a certain point, your car’s value drops to the point where it isn’t worth spending the money on good tires. It’s smarter to just trade your car and start over with something new. And hopefully fun!
An Ounce of Prevention
All of these tire warnings should give you a chance to protect your car, your tires, and your safety. It also pays to have regular wheel alignments and suspension checks, especially if you enjoy performance driving.
Keep an eye on your tires and pay attention if you notice odd wear patterns. You’ll be the smart one who avoids trouble and still gets to bend the rules of the road.
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