Your tires do more than get you from point A to point B. They're your first line of defense on the road. Whether you're commuting, running errands or heading out on a summer road trip, your safety depends on tires that are properly maintained and ready for the miles ahead.
Think about it: no matter how powerful your engine is or how advanced your safety features are, your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road. They’re responsible for gripping the pavement, responding to your steering, and helping you stop when it matters most.
Neglecting your tires, like letting the pressure drop too low or ignoring worn tread, can lead to blowouts, poor handling, longer stopping distances and even crashes. That’s why regular maintenance isn’t just about convenience or performance, it’s about keeping you and your passengers safe.
Like any part of your vehicle, tires don’t last forever. Over time, your car tires will eventually wear down to the point of replacement. Certain problems can cause them to wear faster or become unsafe much sooner. Many warning signs are easy to spot with a quick visual inspection or can be felt while you're driving.
A simple visual check of your tires can help you catch early signs of trouble. Here’s what to watch for:
Some tire issues only become obvious once you're on the road. Keep an eye out for:
There are several preventative practices you can implement to mitigate these symptoms and improve the overall longevity of your tires. They include:
Note: Many cars have tire pressure sensors, but they only warn you when pressure is too low—not when it’s too high. That’s why checking manually is still important
While this is a lot to look out for, there is no need to feel overwhelmed. You do not need to go through a lengthy inspection checklist every time you plan to get behind the wheel. If you know your vehicle well enough to determine if something feels off while you are on the road, a monthly inspection is ideal for ensuring your tires are healthy, safe and road-ready. However, if you fail to perform routine inspections and ignore the signs, you could find yourself dealing with a blowout or something even more costly.
A: At least once a month and before any long trip. Always check when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
A: Use a quarter! Insert it into the tread with Washington’s head down—if you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace your tires.
A: Look for bulges, cracks or uneven wear on the tread and sidewalls. If your car pulls to one side or vibrates while driving, get your tires inspected.
A: Most experts recommend replacing them at 6 years old, even if they look fine. Check the DOT number on the sidewall to find the manufacturer date.
A: Every 5,000–8,000 miles is ideal. This helps them wear evenly and improves your vehicle’s handling and braking.
Caring for your vehicle
AAA can help you keep your car’s wheels and tires in top form. AAA Members receive a free vehicle maintenance inspection upon request with any paid service at a nearby AAA-owned Car Care center or AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, a 36-month/36,000-mile guarantee on repairs at AAA-owned Car Care locations, and a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. Members also receive a 10% discount on repair labor (save up to $75).