Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – April 30, 2024 – Driving is something we all must do. We carry precious cargo everywhere we go. We are all in a hurry and it seems there are not enough hours in a day, but we can’t let lack of time make us neglect vehicle safety. It is extremely important that we do not ignore noises from our vehicle as we drive and pay close attention to whether the car may be pulling right or left.
I am Ivey Herren Jr, Vice President of Herren Tire Service here in Paragould Arkansas, and I’m going to answer 3 questions that will help you as the consumer know that your vehicle is road ready for you and your family for all your travel needs.
How do I know when I need new tires?
– Tread wear indicator-Every tire has a tread wear indicator which is interspersed throughout the tread of the tire. There is a bevel in between the tread that you can run your finger across to indicate how close you are to needing new tires. If you cannot feel it anymore, then it is time for new tires. If the tread is even with the indicator, no test needed it’s time for new tires to get you rolling’ safe and secure. Your local tire expert should check this and communicate if needed to you after pulling your vehicle in for inspection, oil change, tire rotation, etc. Be sure that all these things are being discussed by your salesman to make sure your family is traveling safe.
– DOT codes- The age of tires is essential to knowing you’re driving on safe reliable tires. DOT codes on the side of the tires will guarantee you’re driving on tires that are not outdated and dangerous, showing the month and year the tire was molded and sent out for delivery.
If the tire is over 6 years old (for example: if your tires DOT code states, 1216 on the last 4 numbers pressed in beside the DOT specifications, it means that it is time for new tires. The older the tire gets, the more susceptible it is to increasing dry cracks and separation in the tire. First it will show effects such as dry cracks around the side walls, which could eventually lead to a blow out, if you are not careful.
– Tread Separation- (examples: bulge in tires) If you’re driving down the road and have noticed a wobble or a bounce in your vehicle’s performance, it could indicate a separated tire. If this is the case, go see your tire expert immediately for further diagnosis to make sure you and your family are on the road safe and sound.
– Loss of Traction in wet weather- This normally indicates that the tire tread depth is low and is not gripping the road properly which means it will not perform adequately on slick surfaces. This could result in far pricier options than replacing 4 tires, such as collisions or failure to maintain staying on the road.
Should I buy new or used tires?
There are 2 things that need to be considered, budget and safety. The tire you buy, new or used, will determine the longevity and the mileage that will remain on the tire. If new tires are not in your budget, make sure that all used tires that you are purchasing remain in standard DOT codes, and are no older than 6 years old.
There is a huge selection of used tires, just make sure to choose wisely, because this will determine the future of how long that used tire may last. Also, make sure that the used tires you are purchasing are not out of round and have been properly rotated so you don’t get any unnecessary bump or wobble in the road. Rotation will be key in new or used tires.
Make sure your local tire expert is assisting you properly in getting you a good used tire that is safe for the road, meets all DOT regulations, and is worn evenly.
Does the brand of tire really matter?
– 3 tiers of tires: Low Tier (Tier 3), Mid-Tier (Tier 2), Top Tier (Tier 1)
– Low-tier or Tier 3 (entry level) – Low tier tires are your entry level tire providing anywhere from 35,000 miles to 45,000 miles. These tires look appealing with price tags far more price efficient, but we must remember you get what you pay for. It doesn’t mean they are bad, but they are not the best. We provide every tier level tire to suit your budget needs but will always be up front and honest with the customer on what the milage rating is on the tire. These low tier tires will get you from point A to Point B during difficult times but will provide lower milage than the next 2 tiers of tires. At Herren, you have no worries, we will make sure to tell you exactly what
you’re buying. Built by honesty and dependability in the last 56 years.
– Mid-Tier (Tier 2) – Mid tier tires are good quality tires ensuring anywhere from 50,000-55,000 miles for you and your family. Mid-tier tires are still very price efficient and competitive, while allowing you to get the milage needed out of your tires for your ride. Mid-tier tires are seen as a step up from entry level or low tier tires when it comes to quality. They tend to deliver a greater balance between affordability and performance purposes. They are normally constructed from higher quality materials and make use of more advanced technology.
– Top-Tier (Tier 1) – (best of the best) -Tier 1 are Top Tier tires they range from 65,000-80,000-mile rated tires, that will ensure the best performance and long-lasting mileage for your vehicles. These tires are very well-engineered and use super high-quality components and technology.
You can learn more about your options for new or used tires, custom wheels, brakes, rotors, lift kits, oil changes, commercial and AG tires, service calls, or just bring your car in for a complete checkup.
We have two locations to serve you the best from the east to the west in Paragould, 700 E Kingshighway (870-239-8466) or 300 Airport Rd (870-240-0090) We certainly look forward to serving you in the future. And thank you for continuing to support LOCALLY owned businesses.