The Ultimate Guide to Buying Used Tires
Are you planning on replacing your tires soon? You might want to consider buying used tires for your vehicle. To ensure you get quality tires that are safe and have plenty of life left, here’s our ultimate guide to buying used tires.
What to Look For
Knowing what to look for when buying used tires can help you make an informed decision. Here are three crucial factors to consider:
Tread Depth
The tread depth of a tire is a vital factor to check when buying used tires.
New tires typically have around 12/32 of an inch of tread. When the tread wears down to 4/32 of an inch, it’s usually time to replace them. So, if the tire you’re considering has a tread depth closer to 4/32 of an inch rather than 10/32 of an inch, it might not have much life left.
A simple way to check tread depth is by inserting a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down; if you can see the top of Lincoln's head, the tire is too worn. Alternatively, you can use a quarter, a tread depth gauge, or check the tire's tread wear indicator.
Age
Another important factor to consider is the age of the tire.
Manufacturers suggest that after six years of regular use, the rubber begins to deteriorate and dry out. The U.S. Department of Transportation recommends that ten years is the maximum age for a tire, assuming it’s been well maintained.
Typically, by the seventh year, rubber starts to break down due to exposure to sunlight, weather, and road conditions, so look for signs of cracking from dryness.
Every tire produced after 2000 has a date code indicating the week and year it was manufactured. For instance, a code of 4309 means the tire was made in the 43rd week of 2009, while 2118 indicates it was made in the 21st week of 2018.
Use this code to determine the tire’s age.
Tire Seams
Once you’ve checked the tread depth and age, inspect the tires thoroughly for any defects in the seams.
Look for any bubbles, splitting seams, or signs of patches or plugs. These are indicators that the tire may not hold air well.
Damage to the seams can lead to a blowout, so it’s crucial to ensure the seams are in good condition without visible signs of wear or damage.
If you’re unsure about the condition of the seams, it’s best to have your tires inspected by a professional. At Wholesale Monster Tire, we offer inspections to help you determine if your tires need to be replaced.
Advantages of Buying Used Tires
There are several advantages to buying used tires, which is why many people prefer them.
Save Money
One of the biggest benefits of buying used tires is the cost savings. You can save anywhere from 30-50% compared to new tires.
If you only need to replace one tire, buying a used one is a great way to avoid purchasing a full set. If your other tires are still in good condition and you find a used one that matches, it can be the perfect solution.
Additionally, the lower cost of used tires means you can afford to buy a spare. Having a spare tire can provide peace of mind, especially on long road trips.
Reduce Waste
Another significant benefit of buying used tires is that it’s environmentally friendly. Reusing tires helps reduce the waste generated by discarding old tires. It’s estimated that 290 million tires are discarded in the United States each year! By choosing used tires, you can help reduce this number and contribute to a cleaner, greener planet.
Conclusion
Buying used tires can be a smart and eco-friendly choice. With careful inspection and selection, you can find quality used tires that offer significant savings and environmental benefits. Contact us today at Wholesale Monster Tire to find the best used tires for your vehicle and start saving money.
Related Posts
