Tires: The Most Overlooked Safety Check

Tires are the only part of the car that touches the road. They're also one of the easiest things to overlook when you're buying.

Tread isn't the whole story

Most people check the tread. That's good, but it's not enough. A tire can have plenty of tread and still be unsafe.

Check the age

Tires have a date stamped on the side. After about six years, the rubber starts to break down — even with good tread. Old tires can fail on the highway.

Look for uneven wear

If one edge is worn more than the other, the car may have an alignment or suspension problem. That's a clue worth chasing down.

Cupping or flat spots can point to bad shocks or struts. Again, the tires are telling you about the rest of the car.

Watch for mismatched tires

Four different brands or sizes can mean the owner was cutting corners. It can also affect how the car drives and stops.

Why it matters at sale time

New tires can hide a worn suspension. Old tires can be a cheap way to negotiate. Either way, the tires are part of the story — we always check them.