A tire can still look substantial from the driveway and be the wrong candidate for another season. Tread condition, damage, age and your driving conditions each matter. The buying decision becomes easier when you separate the question of safe use from the question of which replacement offers useful value.
Do not continue a trip on a visibly damaged tire, a tire with a bulge, or one that cannot hold pressure. Arrange professional assessment and safe assistance as needed. NHTSA says tires should be replaced when tread reaches 2/32 inch; a calendar estimate must never override an unsafe condition.
Use the manufacturing date if you know it. Select a range to review inspection and purchasing priorities; age alone cannot establish tire safety.
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