How To Replace Old Tires

Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, which makes their condition critically important to your safety. Driving on old or worn tires reduces traction, increases stopping distances, and raises the risk of a blowout. Understanding how to replace old tires and knowing when the time has come to do so is one of the most straightforward ways to protect yourself and everyone else on the road.

When To Replace Your Tires

The most reliable way to check tire wear is the tread depth test. New tires typically come with around 10/32 inches of tread depth. The legal minimum in most states is 2/32 inches, but experts suggest changing your tires at 4/32 inches, especially in wet conditions. Beyond tread depth, look for sidewall cracks, bulges, visible cords, or persistent slow leaks, all of which are signs that a tire needs to come off the car regardless of remaining tread.

Choosing the Right Replacement Tires

Always replace tires with the size and load rating specified in your owner's manual or on the placard inside the driver's door jamb. Fitting the wrong size can affect speedometer accuracy, handling, and fuel economy. Consider your typical driving conditions when selecting a tire type. If you frequently carry heavy loads or tow a trailer, ensure the replacement tires carry the appropriate load index for your usage. Our parts and accessories team can help you identify the correct tire specifications for your vehicle.

The Replacement Process

Loosen each lug nut slightly before lifting the vehicle. Raise the car with a floor jack and support it securely on jack stands. Remove the lug nuts fully and take the wheel off the vehicle. Tires are mounted on rims and require a tire mounting machine to properly remove and install the rubber onto the wheel. This is not a hand tool job. Take the wheel to a tire shop or service center where the old tire is dismounted from the rim, and the new tire is mounted and inflated to the correct pressure.

Once the wheels are back on, torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification in a star pattern and check all tire pressures before driving. Lakeland Automall's service center offers professional tire services to make the process smooth and straightforward from start to finish.

FAQs

Do I need to replace all four tires at once?

It is ideal to replace all four at the same time for even wear and balanced handling. If budget is a concern, replacing in pairs on the same axle is the next best option. On all-wheel-drive vehicles in particular, mismatched tread depths across all four tires can strain the drivetrain.

How do I find the right tire size for my vehicle?

Your tire size is printed on the sidewall of your current tires in a format such as 225/65R17. You can also find it on the sticker inside your driver's door jamb or in your owner's manual. This number tells you the tire width, aspect ratio, and wheel diameter, all of which must match when selecting replacements.

Can I drive on a spare tire to the tire shop for a replacement?

Compact spare tires, sometimes called donuts, are intended for temporary use only. Most are rated for a maximum speed of 50 mph and should not be driven more than 50 to 70 miles. Full-size spare tires have fewer restrictions but should still be inspected before extended use.