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A Helpful Introduction to Tire Dry Rot

Phil's Tire Shop • June 13, 2022

Your tires are more than just the rubber between you and the road. They can have an impact on your gas mileage, how well your car handles, and even how safe it is to drive. That’s why it’s important to understand the danger of tire dry rot and to replace them with new tires at the first sign of a problem.


What Are the Signs of Dry Rot?

Good tires will look smooth and glossy. If your tires are starting to look like dry, cracked leather and they feel brittle to the touch, dry rot is starting to set in. Other signs can tell you how bad the condition has become. 

Because weak sidewalls are dangerous to drive on, cracks in the sidewall are a sign that it’s time for new tires. Noticeable discoloration is also an indication that the rot is progressing deeper into the tire.


What Causes Tire Dry Rot?

Tires are made with a protective resin that helps them resist oxidation and keeps the rubber from drying out. Over time, this resin can wear out. Exposing your tires to extremes or corrosive elements can accelerate this decay, and thus bring on premature rot. 

These extremes can include long-term exposure to the sun, extended hot or cold spells, and being parked on chemicals and oils. Extended periods of disuse or being driven while underinflated can also worsen issues with dry rot.


How Do You Prevent Tire Dry Rot?

First and foremost, don’t let your vehicle sit unused for too long. Tires are designed to be driven on. When they sit idle, the risk of rot increases. This is especially true if the car is parked where it is exposed to direct sunlight and harsh weather. 

When possible, use parking garages, park in the shade, and generally keep it out of the elements. Finally, the best way to avoid dry rot is to purchase new tires at least every six years regardless of how few miles you put on them.

 

If your tires are showing signs of age or rot, call Phil’s Tire Shop in Saint Louis and Pacific, MO. Serving the region since 1994, they have an inventory of over 9,000 tires right on site and offer a 45-day warranty on most purchases. Reach out to them at (314) 544-3181 or visit their website to send them a message.

A Guide to Buying Used Tires

By Phil's Tire Shop • June 13, 2022
When it comes to replacing the tires on your car or other vehicle, it may be worth visiting your local used tire shop rather than spending extra on brand new tires. You already know it will save you money in the short term, but you may be wondering if it is worth it in the long run. Luckily, you can get quality used tires that work just as well for your vehicle. Keep reading to learn about the advantages of choosing used tires and what to look for to ensure you get quality tires. What Are the Advantages of Used Tires? Some people choose to buy used tires because of their advantages. Probably the most notable advantage of used tires is that you can save 30% to 50% when compared to purchasing new tires. Especially if you are only looking to replace one tire on your car, it makes more sense to buy a used tire and avoid purchasing a complete set. Moreover, you can use the money you saved to get a spare tire and ensure peace of mind on your next road trip. Additionally, buying from a used tire shop reduces waste and is much more environmentally friendly. Purchasing and using used tires keeps them out of the landfill longer and creates a cleaner, greener Earth. What Should You Look For? When buying used tires, make sure you inspect them to ensure they are good quality. There are three important aspects to look at before buying used tires: tread, age, and tire seams. The tread starts to wear down over time with use. To check the tread, insert a penny upside down into the tread. If you can see Lincoln’s whole head, then the tire is probably too worn out. Next, find out when the tire was produced and determine its age. After about six or seven years old, tires start to break down, so look for tires that are still under this age. Lastly, inspect the seams on the tire and look for any bubbles or splitting seams. As long as the seams don’t have signs of damage, then the tire should be in good shape. If you are looking for a used tire shop near you to replace your tires, reach out to Phil's Tire Shop in Saint Louis, MO. Whether you want some used tires, new tires, or tire repair, their team can ensure that you will get an excellent selection and affordable prices. For a dependable and quality used tire shop that offers a tire warranty, call (314) 544-3181. You can also visit them online to learn more about their services.

4 FAQ About Buying New Tires

By Phil's Tire Shop • June 13, 2022
If you're a car owner, replacing your tires is critical for auto maintenance. They're the main point of contact between your car and the road; if they're in poor condition, it will make maneuvering difficult and pose a safety hazard. If you're unsure how to choose new tires, you're not alone. Here are some of the most common questions new drivers have about the process. What to Know About Getting New Tires When should I replace my tires? The primary guideline to replacing your tires is when the tread has worn down. You can usually see when the grooves in the tread are getting thin. Other than tread wear, you should consider a replacement once your tires have reached about six years from the manufacturing date. At that point, the rubber has likely started to degrade and won't be as pliant as before. After a decade, it's best to get new tires entirely, even if they haven't given you problems. Do I need different tires in winter? For most people, "all-season tires" will suffice. However, for those in very snowy climates, you may need to get winter tires. The rubber compounds used are designed to stay pliable and maintain traction even in freezing conditions that could otherwise make them brittle. What's the best tire for my car? Your car owner's manual will provide specifics on the ideal tires. These include width, diameter, load index, and speed rating. The load index refers to how much weight the tires can handle, while the speed rating is the fastest speed they can maintain over time. If you can't find the manual, that information should also be on the door jamb of the driver's side and the interior of the glove box door. Should I upgrade to special tires? If you're someone with a sports car and would like to fine-tune your steering, you may want to consider "high-performance" tires. They usually have a higher speed rating and are generally stiffer. The stiffness helps with precision handling. When you need new tires, head to Phil's Tire Shop. Known for their vast selection of new and high-end used tires, they've been trusted throughout the Greater St. Louis, MO, area for nearly 30 years. Most of their tires come with a 45-day warranty, so you feel safe on the road. Other than selling tires, their experienced team can also replace them. They offer repairs as well. For more information about their tire services, visit their website or call (314) 544-3181.
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