How often you change your tires depends on a number of factors including the type of Mercedes you own, where and how you drive it and how well you care for your tires. Responsible drivers should be aware of the basics about tire wear, how to test for wear and know how to decide when they should change their tires.
Tires are constructed with a pattern of grooves and ridges on their surfaces, which is referred to as tread. Tread increases a car's traction on the road and diverts water from beneath the tire in wet conditions. Although tires are designed to provide reasonably consistent performance throughout their lifetimes, tread does wear down over time and gradually becomes less effective. Most tires are considered to have a life of between 25,000 and 50,000 miles before they need to be replaced.
HOW TO TEST IF YOUR TIRES NEED TO BE CHANGED
A test known as the penny or quarter test, involves inserting a penny or quarter into the center of the tread between two ridges with the image of Lincoln's or Washington's head facing toward you. If you can see the very top of the head, or worse, the space above the head, then the tire needs replacing immediately. If only some hair is visible, then it is time to consider purchasing new tires, though the need is not so urgent. If some of the forehead is concealed, there is still adequate tread.
At CK Auto, we want to help you keep your Mercedes in top condition. If you need to replace your tires, visit our Santa Rosa repair shop and we can help you choose the tires that will best meet the needs of your vehicle.