Owning a car requires constant maintenance, and even the most careful drivers will eventually need to repair or replace their tires. The more miles traveled, the more worn your tires become, and the more susceptible they become to damage. Tire stores offer solutions, ranging from tire maintenance to replacement, that will have your car back in shape in no time. Here are a few of the most common types of tire damage and ways to determine whether a repair will be sufficient, or if you'll need new tires altogether. 

4 Common Tire Problems 

1. Regular Wear and Tear

On average, tires last up to 50,000 miles before needing replacement. However, this timeframe depends on other factors, such as road conditions and driving style. A tire store or auto shop can perform regular rotations to extend your tires' lifespan and reduce the chance of a blowout. 

2. Puncture Damage

Aside from regular wear and tear, your tires are susceptible to other hazards in the road such as glass, stones, nails, and screws. These sharp objects are usually too small to see from the driver's seat, making them tricky to avoid. Luckily, small punctures on the tread, or center of the tire, are easily patched. Unfortunately, punctures longer than a quarter-inch or located on the sidewall are irreparable, and you will need to replace the entire tire.

3. Impact Damage

Running over potholes or carelessly hitting curbs causes impact damage to your car's tires. Impact damage appears as a bulge on the tire walls and weakens your tire's structural integrity. When the structural integrity is compromised, repairs will be insufficient, and you'll need to replace the tire. However, impact damage is avoidable with careful driving, including slowing down for speed bumps and avoiding poorly maintained roads. 

4. Cracked Damage

Cracks typically appear along the sides of the tire and can result from general wear and tear, poor road conditions, overinflating your tires, and even prolonged UV exposure. Small cracks should be monitored yet usually don't call for a new tire. However, deep and widespread cracks are irreparable and you'll need to visit a tire store for a replacement. 
 

If you suspect that it's time to replace or repair your tires, contact Tire Warehouse Kauai in Lihue, HI. This tire store carries an extensive inventory of leading brands and offers maintenance, repair, and installation. Additionally, these ASE-certified technicians have been delivering trustworthy service since 1974. View their inventory online or contact them at (808) 245-6754 to make an appointment today.