When to replace your Chevrolet Tires
Sometimes the waters can get muddy while trying to determine when to replace the tires on your Chevy. The following information will help you determine when to start considering new tires for your car.
Do the tires on my Chevrolet have enough tread left?
There are several ways to check this. Tires have what are known as “wear bars” placed in the grooves of the tire treads. (There are several of these in each groove) If you were to place a finger in the tire groove and slide it along the groove, you will eventually feel a rubber “bump”. This bump is a wear indicator. If the top of the wear indicator is even with the tire rubber outside of the grove, it is time to replace the tires. Tread depth gauges are inexpensive and another way to determine tread depth. You simply place the gauge over the tread, press down on the scale from the top until it bottoms out in the groove, then remove the gauge and read the tread depth (measured in 32nds). In many states, 2/32 of tread depth or less is legally worn and the tire needs to be replaced.
Tread depths and rain: Tread depths over 2/32 may also need replacement. For example; in many cases, a tire with 3/32 of tread left won’t properly disperse rain water at highway speeds, and could lead to a hydroplaning conditions, which is essentially a loss of steering control because the tires are no longer in full contact with the road. If you are not sure if your tires can safely handle rain conditions, have your tires inspected by a qualified Chevrolet technician.
Tread depths and snow: Similar to rain, cars driven in snowy conditions need even more tread depth to help maintain traction when driving in snow. For example: a tire with only 5/32 of tread may not adequately compress and disperse of snow from the grooves, leading to a loss of traction. Before the common use of “all-season tires”, people would put “snow tires” on their cars in the winter. These tires had very deep groove patterns for optimal snow dispersal. If you are not sure if your tires can safely handle snowy conditions, have your tires inspected by a qualified Chevy technician.
Where the rubber meets the road is more than just a commonly used expression – it is where the safety and performance of your Chevrolet vehicle begins. Your Chevrolet dealer can help you with the correct choice of tire for your specific vehicle and driving needs. Chevrolet has made a name for itself in the automotive industry with its braking systems, tire pressure monitors and Stabilitrak suspension. These systems are critically dependent on properly selected, well maintained tires. To get the most out of your Chevrolet car, truck or crossover, speak with the Certified Service experts at your local dealer.
Tire alignment is critical in ensuring that you get the maximum wear and performance from your tires. Poor alignment can result from a number of factors that over time can cause your vehicle’s suspension and steering system to slip out of adjustment. If you notice your vehicle pulling one way or the other as you drive or encounter unusual tire wear, it is likely due to improper alignment. In addition, trucks, SUVs and sports cars have special tire needs based on their environment and traction conditions. Your Chevrolet dealer can recommend the alignment specifications that are right for you. Now, we know you have many choices when it comes to tire replacement. But when you take your GM car to the dealer, the service advisor will help you select the tire that's best for your GM vehicle. That's expertise you won't find at every tire store. And since most GM dealers offer very competitive tire prices on top tire brands like BF Goodrich, Bridgestone, Dunlop, Goodyear, Hankook, Continental, Firestone, General, Michelin, Pirelli, and Uniroyal, why would you go anywhere else?