Ford vehicles are built to last. However, like any other car, they require regular maintenance services, especially when used frequently on rough terrain. Independent auto shops in Huntington Beach that offer Ford service have highly-trained mechanics that can optimize these models for the best possible performance. Part of this maintenance requires knowing when to change your vehicle’s tires. Tires are responsible for navigating every surface and road your car comes into contact with and it can make or break your driving experience with the amount of control it gives you. So, in order to prevent any unfortunate circumstances or inconveniences, auto shop experts can help you evaluate the longevity of your tires.  

Tread

If you’ve ever seen a professional racing car, then you might have noticed that the tires are treadless. Instead of sporting those all-too-familiar grooves and patterns, they are slick and smooth. This allows drivers to optimize their speed and agility on the racetrack. However, more commuter and off-roading vehicles require the opposite. Tire treads allow a driver to maintain control over all kinds of terrain and under all kinds of weather conditions. So, when you take your vehicle into an auto shop for Ford service, the mechanics will be sure to check your tires to ensure that the tread is not worn out. 

One of the most common consequences of a worn tread is hydroplaning. This phenomenon occurs when tires do not have enough tread to grip the surface of a wet road and can spin out of control. Treads allow the necessary traction that is needed for rainy and snowy seasons and make a tire less susceptible to punctures from the road, thus reducing the chances of getting a flat tire. 

Age

According to auto repair experts, the age of tires is a big factor in determining whether you need new ones. The longer you’ve had the same tires, the more likely they will have worn out in some capacity and pose a risk to you when you’re driving. Most manufacturers say that tread can last 60,000 miles. So, you might be able to get by on the same tires for a long time if you don’t drive very far on a regular basis. However, you should also consider that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing your tires every six to ten years, regardless of the mileage you’ve put on it. So, when you take your tire in for an inspection, make sure to ask the skilled technicians what they recommend in terms of your driving habits and lifestyle. 

Getting New Tires

There are some things you should consider when you’re buying new tires for your car. The first is how you will be using your car in the next five to six years. Will you be off-roading on the weekends, commuting across the state, hauling heavy gear? All of these can determine the strength of the tires you require to suit your driving needs. Here are some of the elements that you can adjust to meet your requirements:

• Tire Size: Most tires range from 13-22 inches in diameter. You can match the size of your previous tires in order to maintain consistency and performance control. 
• Tire Type: Depending on the climate that you live in, you may need tires that can withstand freezing temperatures. The model of your car can also change what kind of tires you need for grip strength and speed. Many Ford owners look for heavy-duty tires that drive well on different kinds of terrain.