What are the signs of bad tires?

Bad tires can compromise the safety and performance of your vehicle. Here are some common signs that indicate your tires may need attention or replacement:

1. Low Tread Depth
• Sign: If the tread is worn down to 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm) or less, it's time to replace the tires.
• How to Inspect: Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test (insert a penny with Lincoln’s head facing down—if you can see all of his head, the tread is too low).
2. Cracks or Bulges
• Sign: Visible cracks on the sidewalls or bulges on the surface are signs of structural damage.
• Cause: These can result from hitting potholes, curbs, or normal wear over time, increasing the risk of a blowout.
3. Vibration While Driving
• Sign: Excessive vibrations or shaking while driving, especially at higher speeds.
• Cause: It could be due to unbalanced or misaligned tires, worn-out treads, or internal tire damage.
4. Uneven Tire Wear
• Sign: Some areas of the tire wear down faster than others.
• Cause: This can be a result of improper alignment, over- or under-inflation, or suspension issues.
5. Tire Pressure Problems
• Sign: Constantly needing to inflate the tires or noticing that they frequently lose pressure.
• Cause: Leaks due to punctures, valve stem issues, or damage to the tire's structure.
6. Blisters or Bubbles on the Tire Surface
• Sign: A bubble-like bulge on the tire’s outer surface.
• Cause: This indicates a weak spot in the tire, usually caused by impact damage, and could lead to a blowout.
7. Excessive Tire Noise
• Sign: Worn tread reduces traction, making it harder for your car to grip the road, particularly in bad weather.
• Cause: This could be a result of worn-out treads or uneven wear patterns.
8. Worn-Out Indicator Bars
• Sign: Many modern tires have tread wear indicator bars. If the bars become visible, it means the tread has worn down significantly.
• Cause: These are designed to alert you when the tire needs replacing.
9. Longer Stopping Distances
• Sign: Your vehicle takes longer to stop, especially in wet conditions.
• Cause: Worn tread reduces traction, making it harder for your car to grip the road, particularly in bad weather.

Wondering what are the signs of bad tires? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at River Automotive for more information about tire repair and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.

How often should a transmission be serviced?

The transmission is one of the most expensive components for any car. It's also among one of the hardest working systems in your vehicle. As time passes, the fluid in the transmission gets worse and can't clean and protect all the moving components. Regular maintenance requires a keen eye for the following telltale signs of when service is needed.

How Often Should a Transmission Be Serviced?

Generally, your vehicle's transmission service should be done between 30000 and 60000 miles. It depends on the manufacturer's recommendation, age, and make of your car. Also, if you tow heavy loads often, drive in rough terrains, or sit too long in traffic, you require transmission service more often.

Signs You Need Transmission Repair

After regular maintenance, you need to keep a keen eye for the following telltale signs of when service is needed.

• Shifting Gears issues: Whether you are driving a manual or automatic transmission, the gear shifts should be smooth and instant. Any delay in the vehicle's response when shifting gears or hesitating before engaging in gear may indicate issues with the transmission. When this is the case, you need transmission repair from a professional mechanic.
• Trouble Shifting Gears: If you’re experiencing jolting motions while shifting gears, your car's transmission is in trouble. When these signs appear, you should rapidly get a skilled mechanic to handle them. Delaying maintenance will ultimately damage more components of your transmission system.
• Strange Car Sounds: Uncommon noises like whines, clanks, or hums from your vehicle could indicate something wrong with its transmission system. These sounds can occur whether the automobile is moving or idling. Sometimes, unusual noises may be accompanied by odd smells.
• Engine or Transmission Light Goes Off: Every car has an internal diagnostic system that warns you via a light when it has identified an error in its performance. It illuminates the check engine or transmission light. When either comes on, it's best to have your car inspected by an experienced professional. 

Key Takeaways

Learn how often should a transmission be serviced and ensure you have your vehicle inspected by an expert mechanic for possible problems if you observe these signs. Prudent maintenance and instant response to such troubles could prolong the life of your car's gearbox and prevent future costlier repairs.

Wondering how often should a transmission be serviced? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at River Automotive for more information about transmission repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves residents in the community of Princeton, MN, and in the surrounding areas of Milaca, MN, and Zimmerman, MN.