Tire Services in Albuquerque, NM

Tire Rotation, Alignment, & More at Chalmers Ford

There can be a lot to consider when it's time to buy new tires, so you can have peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in good hands with the professionals at our Ford dealership's service center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Your tires have a huge influence on your driving safety and pleasure, so knowing when it's time to change them is an important bit of knowledge. Keep reading to discover the signs that you may need to have your tires replaced and learn about the available wheel and tire services we perform.

What Are Some Signs That Your Tires May Need To Be Serviced or Replaced?

Tires inevitably wear out. While needing to change them after a while is an inevitability, this may happen sooner or later depending on multiple factors. A tire's average life span is around three or four years; sometimes you may need to replace them sooner, while in other situations they may be fine even after multiple years. Here are some signs that you should consider having an experienced professional take a look at your tires.

They're Noisy

If you notice your car's tires are making more noise than usual when driving on smooth roads, it may be time to replace them. Next time you're driving on a quiet road, turn down your audio system and open your car's windows. This can make it easier to distinguish tire noise from other noises that your vehicle produces. If it's louder than you remember it to be, have a professional check them out.

You Notice Cracks or Bulges

You can sometimes see clear signs of tire wear by simply looking at the respective tires. Over time, tires may develop creaks from major temperature changes and bulges due to air penetrating the tire lining and pushing the outer rubber. It's essential that you replace your tires as soon as possible after noticing any of these, as they may lead to one of your tires exploding.

You Feel a Strange Vibration While Driving

Another common symptom of worn-out tires is your car vibrating at certain speeds. These can also be caused by other potential faults, such as a defective suspension system or wheel misalignment. The most effective way to determine the root of the issue and have it fixed is by taking your car to a service center.

It's Harder To Control Your Car on Wet Surfaces

If you notice your car being more difficult to steer and brake on wet or snowy roads than it used to be, the reason is likely that your tires are worn out. The groove patterns you see on your tires are there to increase traction on slippery surfaces by expelling the water between them and the road. These patterns tend to wear out over time, meaning that more water stays between your tires and the road surface, making your car more slippery.

How Can You Tell if Your Tire Needs Repairing or Replacing?

Tire issues don't always result in needing new ones. Some of them can be repaired by taking your car to a tire service center such as Chalmers Ford. These are some factors that professionals consider when deciding whether a tire needs replacing or repairing.

The Tire's Condition

One of the first things that tire professionals take into consideration when determining whether a tire can be repaired is its overall condition. Some signs that a tire has exceeded its life span and is unsafe to repair include thin thread patterns and visible damage, such as rips and tears. In these cases, even if the tire may be repairable, it's strongly recommended that you get new ones.

The Size and Location of a Puncture

When you take your car to a tire service center due to a punctured tire, tire technicians will determine if the puncture can be fixed based on multiple factors. First, they assess the puncture's location. Most punctures that occur on the thread area can be fixed, while those that occur on the lateral wall usually can't and will lead to needing a new tire. Also, large punctures and long cuts can't usually be safely repaired.

Existing Interior Damage

If you've been driving on a poorly inflated or flat tire, you've likely caused damage to its interior walls. The lack of air pressure means that these walls are pressed against the road, causing premature wear. When determining whether your tire can be fixed or needs replacing, tire professionals will carefully analyze the inside of your tire for any signs of excessive damage.

What Are Some Common Wheel and Tire Services?

The tire professionals at Chalmers Ford can perform multiple wheel and tire services for you. Some common ones are:

• Tire rotation: tires tend to wear out at different rates, which can cause a loss of stability and comfort. Our professionals will analyze the wear patterns on your tires and decide how to rotate them for optimal wear.
• Deciding whether you need a replacement: While there are some signs that you can spot for yourself, having your tires checked by professionals may uncover hidden faults. They'll look for any sign of major deterioration, such as splits, bulges, and serious discolorations, and recommend new tires when needed.
• Replacing worn-out tires with new ones: If tire professionals conclude that your tires are beyond repair and need replacing, they'll recommend new and original ones. While buying less expensive ones may be tempting, it's important to remember that buying quality tires is an investment in safety and driving pleasure.

Come to Chalmers Ford for All Your Tire-Related Needs

From a simple tire rotation job to changing an entire set of tires, our service center professionals at our Ford dealership in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, are qualified to do the job. While you're here, we recommend that you let us perform other routine checks to determine if you need new oil, a battery, or brake components. Taking care of them in due time can help you save money in the long run. Call us today or simply stop by.