Gravel roads, harsh Minnesota winters, and heavy workloads punish tires faster than typical suburban driving, turning minor wear into dangerous blowouts within weeks. Our tire shop helps local drivers recognize the warning signs of failing tires early so you don’t get stranded roadside. Learn more with A. M. Maus and Son.
Insufficient Tread Depth
Minnesota law requires a minimum tread depth of 2/32 inch, but safe winter driving demands at least 6/32 inch for adequate snow and ice traction. Insert a quarter into your tire tread with Washington’s head pointing down—if you see above his hairline, your tires need immediate replacement. Uneven wear patterns with one section showing cords while other areas maintain depth can indicate wheel alignment issues, which you’ll also want to get addressed.
Visible Damage
Cracks appearing in the sidewalls of your tires signal rubber compound breakdown from sun exposure, ozone, and temperature extremes. Bulges or blisters, meanwhile, indicate internal belt separation that causes sudden blowouts at highway speeds. Any puncture larger than one-quarter inch diameter or located in the sidewall demands tire replacement rather than repair.
Performance Problems
If you feel vibrations while driving above 45 mph, it can indicate tire imbalance or separation. Vehicles pulling consistently left or right despite straight steering may have unequal tire pressure or wear patterns from improper alignment. Squealing on turns can also indicate tire issues. These problems not only impact your safety, they also hamper your fuel efficiency, so you’ll want to have them addressed promptly.
Visit Our Tire Shop in Kimball, MN
The certified technicians at A. M. Maus and Son provide comprehensive tire inspections, rotation services, and replacement options suited for Minnesota’s harsh weather conditions. Visit our tire shop in Kimball, MN, today for honest assessments and competitive pricing on quality tires that keep your RAM truck, Jeep SUV, or work vehicle operating safely through every season.