You know when your car's tires need to be replaced when:

1. Less than 7/32 of an inch of tread is left on the tire. Place a penny in the tread. The tread should reach past almost to Lincoln's eyebrow.

2. You have exceeded the number of miles on the tire rating. Tires are rated to travel a finite number of miles as a maximum. Replace tires withing 1,000 miles of the maximum rated.

3. You can hear a rhythmic thump as you drive. This is often produced by a tire that is out of round, simply, has a hernia. The steel belting has been severed, and the inner layer of rubber is placing pressure on the tread from the inside.

4. You develop a slow leak. If your tire pressure is low within a week of filling it to the correct pressure, you should have the tire checked. Punctures within 1 inch (25 mm) of the edge or in the side wall should never be repaired.

5. You develop a leak after placing a fixative tire inflater into your tire. If you tire is not at the correct pressure within one week of using a product, such as Fix-a-Flat or Re-Air, replace the tire because it is unable to be patched. Note: Americans will pay a fine for this tire, as after the fixative, it cannot be recycled by traditional methods.

5. You notice a wobbling in your steering. This is another sign that you may have a tire that is out of round.

6. You hear a whining, near whistling, sound when you drive. The whistling is produced by too much of the tire surface improperly touching the pavement.

7. Your tire has become flat, and you have driven on it for more than one half mile. The inside wall of the tire will be damaged, as well as the exterior of the side wall. The tire will be unsafe to operate the vehicle.

8. You notice wear, nicks or cuts on the side wall of your tire. There is no reinforcement to the side wall. If it is damaged in any way, the tire should be replaced.

9. You notice uneven tread wear. If the inside or outside tread of your tire is worn more than the rest, it is best to replace it, but consult a professional. If the worn tread is less than 7/32 of an inch deep, definitely replace it.

Remember, tires are the only thing keeping you on the road. Take care of them.

Learn more about this author, Ann Marie Dwyer.
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