Many things can go wrong when driving, ranging from bad brakes to worn-out suspension systems. That said, most people often wonder if it’s safe to drive on bald tires. So, how long can you drive on bald tires?
You shouldn’t drive on bald tires at all. These tires are a major safety hazard since they can cause hydroplaning and make it difficult to control your car, especially in wet weather conditions. Additionally, bald tires can also lead to blowouts, causing severe accidents.
This post will discuss why bald tires are dangerous and some tips on how to keep your tires in good condition. Keep reading to learn more!
Why you should not drive on bald tires
Bald tires cause hydroplaning
One of the notable risk factors of driving on bald tires is hydroplaning, which occurs when your tires lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water between the tire and the road. That can cause you to lose control of your car and possibly crash.
As this article by Bridgestone points out, hydroplaning starts at speeds as low as 56 kph (35 mph), and the risk increases with speed. So, even if you’re driving slow, you’re still at risk if your tires have little tread.
Bald tires can blow out
Another hazard of driving on bald tires is that they can blow out. A tire blowout is when the tire suddenly loses all air pressure, causing the tire to collapse. Blowouts are extremely dangerous as they can cause you to lose control of your car.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire blowouts are one of the leading causes of highway accidents, accounting for over 11,000 accidents every year.
Another problem is when the tire walls are weak, bubbles can appear, and these are signs to quickly stop using your tires as it shows the tire walls are collapsing. Learn more about bubbles in tires.
Bald tires hurt your car’s handling
In addition to being a safety hazard, driving on bald tires can also negatively impact your car’s handling. That’s because bald tires have less grip on the road, making it harder to steer and control your vehicle.
Additionally, bald tires can cause your car to vibrate, making for a less comfortable ride. Therefore, it’s crucial to replace your tires when they start to get bald.
What to do if your tires are bald
If your tires are bald, the only thing you can do is replace them. No products or treatments can make bald tires safe to drive on. Just ensure that you buy new tires that are the right size and type for your car.
Here are a few tips on how to pick the right tires for your car:
- Check your owner’s manual to see what size and type of tires your car needs.
- Consult with a tire expert to get their opinion on the best tires for your car.
- Read online reviews of different tires before making your purchase.
- Make sure to buy tires from a reputable brand.
If you are based on the Isle of Man, go to S&S Motors, and we will fix your tires for you. Daniel, who runs Motor Aspects, works here!
Things to do to keep your tires in good shape
Check your tire pressure regularly
One of the best things you can do to extend the life of your tires is to check the tire pressure regularly. Low tire pressure can cause the tires to wear out faster, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the pressure and inflate the tires when necessary.
However, avoid overinflating the tires, as this can also cause premature wear, blowouts, and other problems.
If you need a tire pressure gauge, try this Vondior Tire Pressure Gauge from Amazon.com. It’s a heavy-duty analog gauge with an easy-to-read dial, making it a great option for checking your tire pressure.
Get your tires rotated and balanced regularly
Another important thing you can do to extend your tires’ life is getting them rotated and balanced regularly. Most mechanics recommend doing this every 8,000 to 9,700 km (5,000 to 6,000 miles). That helps evenly distribute the wear and tear on the tires, which can help them last longer.
Besides that, balancing your tires can also improve your car’s handling and gas mileage.
Replace your tires when necessary
The final thing you can do to keep your tires in good shape is to replace them when necessary.
Most car manufacturers recommend replacing your tires every 6 to 10 years, regardless of how much mileage they have.
So, if your tires are getting close to that 6-year mark, it’s probably time to start shopping for new ones.
Here’s a video that may come in handy if you need more tire maintenance tips:
The bottom line
Driving on bald tires is dangerous and can cause accidents, blowouts, and other problems. If your tires are bald, replace them as soon as possible. Just ensure that you’re buying the right kind of tire for your car.
If you’re unsure about which type of tire to purchase, ask a professional at a tire or auto shop. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your tires.