Ask Pete

[#1]

We've all heard that in order to get the most out of our tires, we should be diligent in maintaining proper air pressure and rotate the tires every 5,000-6,000 miles. While this is all very true, I hope that your technician is paying attention to the "story" the tires are telling.

Assuming the tires are all the same age, if the front tires are worn to a much greater degree than the rears, the tires are telling me the owner is remiss in a proper maintenance schedule.

If I see tires that are worn only on the outside edges, more than likely the vehicle's front end is out of alignment or has a worn steering component.

If I see tires that are cupped, chances are good the tires are telling me the shock absorbers are worn out.

And if I see tires where the outside edges are scalloped, the tires are trying to tell me the chances are good the toe adjustment of the alignment is out.

Conversely, if the tires are worn evenly across with only some slight wear on the outer edge, this is a properly maintained tire in the front of the vehicle that is showing normal cornering wear, and it is probably getting close to time to rotate as per the manufacturer's recommendation.

Knowing what the tires are trying to tell you can save you money and hopefully make you a more informed consumer!