The Dangers of Buying Used Tires
Secondhand items such as books, clothes, and cars can save us a few dollars, but experts say there are some items you should never buy used. While many bargain hunters buy used tires because they are often the most affordable, there are risks associated with them. According to Consumer Reports, used tires are unsafe, and you could take a big gamble on your safety.
Worn-out used tires are accident-prone. Data from the federal government has indicated that about 200 people are killed and thousands are injured every year due to used tire-related accidents.
Why Used Tires are Unsafe
A used tire brings many unknowns. You don’t know where or how they have been used. Since old tires don’t come straight from the manufacturer, it is impossible to know their entire history. They could have been:
- Recalled by the tire manufacturer
- Under-inflated or over-inflated
- Overloaded
- Punctured
- Driven at excessive speeds
- Damaged from hitting potholes and curbs
- Exposed to harsh temperatures and weather
- Improperly repaired
Why Used Tires Are Not Worth Buying
Old tires won’t last as long as new tires, so you must replace them again soon. You also won’t get a warranty on used tires since tire warranties usually apply only to the original owner and are not transferrable.
The weather, driving style, and tire age affect treadwear and buying them used without knowing their history could lead to car accidents. You are better off buying new tires, and talking to a tire expert will help you know which models are the safest and most budget-friendly.
Hidden Dangers in Used Tires
A quick inspection is all it takes to see why a used tire is unsafe. Bumps, cracks, exposed steel cords, deteriorating rubber, bead damage, low tread depth, and metal objects in the tire are all good reasons not to buy them secondhand.
While some used tires, show signs of wear and tear that cause concern, not all tire damage is visible from the outside. Hitting a curb or pothole, running over or under-inflated tires, and improper repairs can lead to internal tire defects.
Watch the YouTube video to understand the hidden dangers of buying used tires for your vehicle.
Replace Your Old Tires
Auto manufacturers encourage vehicle owners to replace their tires before they are worn out. Most tires have a shelf life of five to six years and even less for those who live in an arid, dry part of the country. Even if your tires have minor tread wear, driving on them could still be unsafe. Tires are made of rubber materials that age over time, even if barely used or unused. Think of an old rubber band; it breaks and cracks easily when stretching. It is the same with the rubber in your tires. Experts recommend replacing your tires if they are over six years old.
To find out the age of your tires, look for a four-digit DOT code on the side of the tires. All tires produced after 1999 have four numbers that tell you when the tire was manufactured. The first two numbers indicate the week the tire was made, and the second two represent the year. For instance, a tire with the code DOT 3016 was made in the 30th week of 2016.
Sacramento Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer. Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to driving. Buying new tires for your vehicle is the only way to go regarding safety and reliability. Tires are the only auto parts that make contact with the road, so it is essential to have quality ones to keep you and your family safe. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident due to a defective tire, call our law firm at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free and friendly advice.
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