Your auto inspection date is coming up. You feel mostly confident, but you can’t shake off that tiny voice that keeps asking, “How do I know if my tires will pass inspection?” Suddenly, you’re not so sure and you’re wondering if you need a tire inspection.

People often overlook tire maintenance before going into an auto inspection because they drive on them regularly with no issue. But checking your tires beforehand can save you time money in the long run! Trust us—we’ve seen cars fail auto inspections for tire-related issues first-hand. 

In this article, we’ll cover:

  • How to Inspect Your Tires

    • Check Tread Tire Depth

    • Check Tire Pressure

    • Check Tire Condition

For a full list of auto inspection requirements, refer to your local DMV’s inspection rubric. Want more tire safety tips? Check out our last blog about preparing for tire blowouts and best tire brands!

How to Inspect Your Tires

Performing a tire inspection is straightforward if you know what to look for. You should pay attention to any indicator lights that may signal an issue with your tires. Beyond that, keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear by following our steps below. 

Check Tread Tire Depth

Adequate tread depth is crucial for maintaining traction and ensuring your tires are roadworthy. Check the tread depth using a tread depth gauge or, more popularly, the "penny test." This involves putting a penny between your tire’s tread with Lincoln’s head upside down (he should be facing you). If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, then your tire tread depth is less than 2/32 of an inch (1.6 mm), and it’s time to replace your tire.

Check Tire Pressure

Part of proper tire maintenance is sticking to the recommended tire pressure as specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Underinflated or overinflated tires can affect your vehicle's handling and tread wear. Use a reliable tire pressure gauge to check the pressure and adjust it if needed.

If you don’t have a tire pressure gauge, you can often find one with instructions at gas stations. To check your tire pressure, remove your tire’s valve stem cap. Then, push your pressure gauge into the valve until you hear a hissing sound. This is your tire’s air going into the gauge. Compare the indicated PSI to your tire’s specified PSI and inflate the tire as necessary. Finally, replace the tire’s valve stem cap.

Check Tire Condition

You must regularly inspect your tires for any signs of uneven wear patterns, which may indicate issues with your alignment, suspension, or tire inflation. Driving under unsafe tire conditions could result in a tire blowout, causing serious accidents. Regularly rotate your tires to optimize for even wear, and be vigilant about signs of tire damage.

For example, excessive wear on the edges may suggest your tires are under-inflated, while wear in the center may be caused by over-inflation. You should also note any sidewall scrapes or cracks that need repair or replacement.

Other non-visual signs to be wary of car floor vibrations at high speeds, difficulty steering, or a slight tilt left or right when your steering wheel is straight. These signs point to issues with your vehicle’s alignment and suspension.

If you’re unsure about the conditions of your tires, contact our team of professionals for a thorough tire inspection!

Replace Your Tires

At the end of the day, tire maintenance and safety is paramount—tires repairs are not a permanent solution to a tire issue. Worn-out tires are more prone to failure and can compromise your safety on the road. If your tires are excessively worn, damaged, or have insufficient tread depth, it's important to replace them before the inspection. 

You should also keep in mind that auto inspections cost time and money to complete. Failing a tire inspection means you’ll have to pay for a fix before spending more time to be reinspected. 
Stop wasting time and make sure your tires are up to par! Find quality used tires or get help with a tire inspection at Hooper’s Tire Outlet. Stop by our shop or contact us today for any questions!