How Do You Know When You Need New Tires?
If you're searching for tire service near me, tire replacement near me, or new tires near me in the Glendale or greater Los Angeles area, your vehicle may already be telling you it's time. Here's what to watch for.
The most reliable test is the penny test: insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln's head pointing down. If you can see the top of Lincoln's head, your tread depth is below 2/32" — the legal minimum in California — and it's time for new tires. A more conservative benchmark is the quarter test: if you can see above Washington's head, your tread is below 4/32" and performance in wet conditions is significantly reduced.
Beyond tread depth, watch for cracks or bulges in the sidewall, vibration while driving (especially at highway speed on the 5 or 210 freeway), pulling to one side, and increased stopping distance. Los Angeles roads — with the constant stop-and-go traffic on the 405, 134, and 2 — are particularly hard on tires. Heat, sun exposure, and road debris accelerate tire wear across the LA area.
Our certified technicians perform a complimentary tire inspection with every service visit — measuring tread depth on all four corners and flagging any safety concerns with our multi-point video inspection. If you're not sure whether you need new tires, schedule a free inspection today.