As the weather warms up and roads clear of ice and snow, spring is a great time to get your vehicle back in top shape. One of the most important—yet often overlooked—areas to inspect is your tires. Whether you’ve just been through a tough winter or recently experienced a collision, checking your tires is essential for safe, stable spring driving. Tires take a lot of punishment in cold weather, and any impact from an accident or road hazard can throw off their performance, wear, and alignment.
Here’s what to look for—and why tire maintenance matters more than ever this season.
Inspect for Collision-Related Tire Damage
If your car was involved in a recent fender bender or hit a pothole hard enough to cause suspension damage, it’s important to examine your tires closely. Even a low-speed impact can cause:
- Sidewall bubbles or bulges
- Cracked or damaged rubber
- Bent wheels or rims
- Tire shifts or uneven seating on the wheel
These issues can lead to blowouts or handling problems and should be addressed right away. If the tires or rims are damaged, replacing or repairing them is necessary for safe driving.
Check Tire Pressure
Spring weather brings fluctuating temperatures, which can impact tire pressure. Low pressure can lead to poor fuel economy, sluggish handling, and uneven wear, while overinflated tires may reduce traction and increase the risk of a blowout.
Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure each tire is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (found on the sticker inside your driver’s door). Also, don’t forget to check the spare.
Look for Uneven Tread Wear
Tires with uneven wear can be a sign of poor alignment or suspension damage—both of which are common after a collision. Inspect all four tires for:
- Bald spots
- Worn inner or outer edges
- Feathering or cupping
If you notice uneven wear, it may be time for a tire rotation, alignment, or suspension inspection to prevent further tire damage and improve your car’s ride quality.
Check Tread Depth
Spring showers can make roads slick, so your tires need adequate tread to maintain traction. A safe tread depth is typically 4/32” or more. Use a tread depth gauge or the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see all of his head, it’s time to replace the tire.
Get an Alignment Check After an Accident
Even if your car seems to drive normally after a minor accident, your wheels could be out of alignment. Misaligned wheels lead to uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced safety—especially during emergency maneuvers or wet conditions. If your car pulls to one side or the steering feels off-center, schedule an alignment inspection.
Final Thoughts
Your tires are your car’s only connection to the road, and taking care of them after winter—and especially after any kind of collision—is essential for safe spring driving. By checking tire pressure, tread depth, and wear patterns, and addressing any damage or alignment issues, you can enjoy better performance, longer tire life, and greater peace of mind on the road. If you’re unsure about your tire condition or alignment, a professional inspection can help ensure your vehicle is truly road-trip ready this spring.