5 Things You Should Know Before Buying Used Tires

Giving your ride used tires is a good way in saving money. Besides, doing it also means that you are an eco-friendly person. The more good tires thrown away, the more wastes our earth would take. However, choosing used tires is not an easy task. If you are not careful enough, you may end up buying tires with uneven wear, thin spots, bubbles, or terrible patching. Lessen your chance of buying damaged tires by reading these tips.
1. The first thing you should do before buying used tires is checking the size. You can find this information from the driver's side door panel or look for it from the owner's manual. If by chance the suggested size from the manufacturer doesn't match the current size of your tire, opt for second-hand tires which match the current size.
2. Check for the uneven wear too. More evident wear may cause the tire seems flatter on one side than the other side. However, sometimes the wear is harder to spot. Run your hand along the surface to feel rising and dipping tread. Double-check to make sure you have chosen a good one.
3. Inspect the inside part of the tires. See if there is evidence of previous repairs such as patches or plugs. If the tire has too many patches, leave it and go find another one. Sieve-like tires won't help saving your money. You'll end up spending your budget to repair the damaged tires.
4. Examine the minimum tread depth by using a penny. Turning the penny upside down, slip it between the treads. A used tire could be of use if the tread comes at least at the top of Lincoln's head. Used tires with shallower tread depth are not worth buying.
5. Inspect also for the tears that may occur. To do that, run your hand along the inner edge or the bead of the tire. Inner edges of used tires should be smooth. Ripped inner edges or beads make the tire cannot seal properly along the rim.

Don't Try

Prior to buying used tires, it is also important to know that you look for it at a reputable tire shop. Remember to always be careful and thorough during your tire inspection. One thing to note, it is a big no to buy used tires with dry rot. Although they may have deep tread left, dry rot reduces the amount of your car's traction which may lead to a blown tire.

Choosing used tires needs careful checking. Have more tips on how to purchase good tires from our site.