In short: yes, buying used tires can be safe. However, just like buying a used car or boat, you need to make sure you’re purchasing it from a reputable and trustworthy source. You also need to ensure that all aspects of the tires are in good condition. The last thing you want is to have a used tire burst or quickly deflate while you’re speeding down the highway. To make sure you’re purchasing the best used tires, here are some things to keep in mind.
The Tire’s Age
You can easily find out how old a tire is by looking at the information on the sidewall. There will be four number present, the first two indicating the week it was manufactured, and the last two digits indicating the year it was made. The average tire should be changed after six or seven years, as that’s when the rubber becomes too dry and begins breaking down.
Inspect the UTQG Rating
UTQG stands for Uniform Tire Quality Grade Standards, a rating given to tires to tell you how quickly they’re likely to wear out with average use. The lower the rating is, the faster the tire will wear down. However, some tires might perform better or worse than what their UTQG ratings claim.
Check the Tread Depth
To check the depths of a tire tread, insert a quarter into one of the grooves. If the entire head is showing, then the tire is worn out. You can also use a tread depth gauge to determine this.
Learn About the Tire’s History
Which vehicle were the tires attached to in the past? What weather conditions were they exposed to? How long were they used for? The more you know about the used tires you’re interested in purchasing, the more confident you’ll be that you’ve made the right choice. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and demand details.
Is There Uneven Wear?
If you notice any uneven wear patterns on the tires, it could suggest several things, including over or under tire inflation and imbalance. Extensive tread wear can damage the liner and lead to total tire collapse.
Look at the Sidewalls and Beads
As with other aspects of used tires, you should evaluate the condition of the beads and sidewalls, as any inconsistencies can mean that there’s internal damage or the belt has separated. This is indicated by cracking, cuts and exposed cording.
At 416 Wheels and Tires, we offer our customers a wide variety of tire brands to choose from, including Firestone, Bridgestone, Good Year and General Tire. We provide services such as tire repair and replacement, rim sales and more, all at affordable prices. Be sure to call us or visit our website for more information.