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When you're in the market for a vehicle, we know it's sometimes hard to decide whether to go the new car route or not. If you're ever in this position, and you're weighing pros and cons, be sure to remember that used cars can be just as reliable as new cars if you take good care of them. By showing your investment some love in the form of preventative maintenance, you'll ensure your car will return the favor. Keeps You Safer Ward off any potential issues by having a trained professional look at your car's parts and systems that are most likely to give you issues and hazards on the roads. This includes the brake system, tires, the battery, fluids, and filters. If you or a mechanic aren't taking a look, chances are you won't know there's an issue until your car has failed you until you're in an accident or stranded on the side of the road. They'll Last Longer With Upkeep All of the care you put into the individual components of your car will add up, helping you keep it on the road for longer. If the systems are kept happy with proper fluids and upkeep, they will work more efficiently, which will lead to fewer issues over time. Saves You Money In the long run, it's going to cost you less money to perform maintenance than it would have otherwise cost you to replace an entire system due to an easily preventable issue. Also, the more efficient your vehicle is, the better its fuel economy will be, which will save you even more at the pump. Overall, the more use you get out of your car, the longer it will be before you are in a position where you must replace it. More Money in the Form of Trade-In Value So, when the time eventually does come for you to part ways with your properly cared for vehicle, it will be in relatively better shape than had you neglected its health. Your car's overall condition will positively affect how much you can get for it when trading it in. This goes for both its appearance and what's under the hood. With this list of benefits, and the fact that there are some more not even listed, we think the time and effort that go into preventative care for a previously owned car is more than worth it. This is why purchasing used is a great option. Stop by Rath Auto Resources in Fort Smith, AR to check out our current inventory. Also, be sure to find out how our service department can help you achieve the benefits listed above.

Image via Shutterstock Did you know that your vehicle's catalytic converter plays a crucial role in converting unburned fuel and nitrogen oxide into less harmful substances? It then releases safer emissions through the exhaust. When the converter malfunctions, it can significantly affect your vehicle's gas mileage and performance. Below are ways to tell when you need car maintenance and a new converter installed to ensure your vehicle performs optimally. Illuminated Check Engine Light If your car's converter malfunctions, the oxygen sensors in your vehicle will detect that the exhaust gases are not adequately catalyzed. This will cause the check engine light on your dashboard to go on. Call us as soon as possible when you see the check engine light is on to prevent further damage to your vehicle. Sulfurous Odor During the combustion process, the sulfur present in the fuel transforms into hydrogen sulfide. The converter then converts the hydrogen sulfide into sulfur dioxide, an odorless gas. When the converter fails to do its job correctly, it won't convert all the gas, resulting in the emission of an unpleasant sulfurous odor from the exhaust similar to the smell of rotten eggs. Poor Acceleration A converter is a metal container between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. The converter contains a honeycomb mesh. Over time, the mesh can get clogged with carbon buildup. It can also get damaged when the heat from unburned fuel melts it. When there is a blockage, it will restrict the exhaust flow, making your car feel slow and sluggish when you step on the gas pedal. Increased Fuel Consumption When the converter is not working correctly, you may notice that your car is consuming more gas than usual. The problem could be an obstruction due to blockage preventing exhaust flow, causing you to stop at the gas station to fill up more often. Rattling Noises Over time, the mesh inside the converter's container begins to deteriorate due to excessive heat or damage. When the mesh breaks down, it will start to make noises. You will hear rattling when driving, especially when your car idles. Stalls and Hard Starts If you hear rattling noises from under your car, and the converter causes it, replacing it as soon as possible is best. When the mesh inside the converter breaks up, it can make its way into the muffler and cause severe damage. Once the material enters the muffler, you may struggle with stalling and difficulty starting your car. Typically, a converter's lifespan is around 100,000 miles or a decade. A malfunctioning converter can cause frustrating car problems. However, if you notice symptoms of a faulty converter, there's no need to worry. Call Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith now to schedule an expert replacement and make all your vehicle problems a thing of the past.

Image via Pixabay At Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith, AR, we can tell you that car maintenance is the key to a smooth and safe driving experience. But sometimes, despite our best efforts, life has other plans, and we find ourselves dealing with an unexpected flat tire. 1. Safety First Before anything else, ensure you're in a safe location. If you're on a busy road, pull off to the side or into a parking lot. Switch on your hazard lights and make sure your parking brake is engaged. 2. Gather Necessary Tools Before you can change your tire, you'll need a few essential tools. These include a car jack, a lug wrench, and of course, a spare tire. Most cars come equipped with these tools in the trunk, so it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with their location in advance. 3. Loosen the Lug Nuts Before you lift the car, use your lug wrench to slightly loosen each lug nut on the flat. Turn the lug wrench counterclockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts entirely yet. 4. Position and Raise the Car Jack Place the jack under the car's frame close to the tire. Ensure the jack is on a firm and stable surface. Raise the car slowly until the tire is off the ground. Make sure the car is steady before proceeding. 5. Remove the Tire Now, remove the lug nuts completely and set them aside in a place where they won't roll away. Once done, grip the tire by its treads and pull it towards you until it's free from the hub. 6. Mount the Spare Tire Align the holes of the spare tire with the lug bolt posts on the hub. Push the spare onto the hub until you can see the lug bolts through the rim's holes. 7. Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts Start by screwing the lug nuts back on by hand. Ensure they're as tight as possible without using the wrench. This will ensure the tire is properly seated. 8. Lower the Vehicle and Tighten Using the car jack, carefully lower the vehicle back to the ground. Once the car is securely on the ground, use the lug wrench to tighten each lug nut in a crisscross pattern. Make sure they're as tight as possible to ensure safe driving. Get Regular Car Maintenance in Fort Smith, AR to Avoid a Flat Well, it's impossible to guarantee that you'll never experience a flat, you have a much better chance of avoiding one if you get regular maintenance at the dealership. This maintenance will include inspections of the tire and tire rotations to help you have a better chance of avoiding a flat. Remember that regular tire maintenance and inspections are your best defense against unexpected flats or blowouts. Whether you need some maintenance or have just had a flat, bring your car to us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith for expert care.

Owning a car is one of the biggest commitments you make in life, regardless of whether it's new or used. Regular car maintenance is essential to keep your used vehicle running at its best. To help you stay ahead of any potential issues, we've put together four maintenance tips for car owners that will go a long way in helping protect your investment. 1. Have Your Vehicle Regularly Checked by an Experienced Dealer One important way to stay on top of your car's condition is by scheduling regular inspections at an authorized dealership. The technicians at the dealership can inspect every aspect of your car, from adjusting tire pressure and brakes to examining spark plugs and air filters, all of which are fundamental to keeping your car running smoothly and safely. The technicians can also check the battery, refill fluids such as antifreeze or engine coolant, and check the condition of your belts or hoses. With regular servicing from a certified dealer, you can feel confident driving on the roads knowing that you are safe in a car that has been properly inspected and maintained. 2. Get Your Oil Changed Changing the engine oil, as the manufacturer recommends, is crucial to keeping your car running in good condition. Doing so can extend the life of a vehicle by helping reduce friction and wear on engine parts. Furthermore, replacing worn-out oil with new oil helps keep your engine clean and reduces the risks of dirt buildup that can lead to expensive repairs down the line. 3. Repair Wear and Scratches While the occasional dent or scratch in your car can easily be overlooked, it's crucial to get them repaired. Not only can dents and scratches detract from your car's overall aesthetic, but if left unattended, they can eventually cause rust and further damage. Fortunately, you don't have to tackle these repairs on your own. Your dealership is a great resource for dealing with this kind of work. 4. Use the Correct Fuel for Your Car Gasoline, diesel, and even alternative fuels like ethanol or biodiesel can provide power, but their use depends on the make and model of the car. Each of these fuels comes with its own set of advantages. However, using the wrong fuel for your car can cause serious issues such as corrosion, engine stalling, or complete engine failure. Furthermore, incorrect fuel usage may nullify any existing warranty from the manufacturer, making costly repairs out-of-pocket. Our team is dedicated to keeping your car running in peak condition. Whether you need an oil change, brake repair, or new tires, we have you covered. Contact Rath Auto Resources Fort Smith to schedule an appointment today and get ready to hit the roads with confidence.

How long has it been since your last tire rotation? Maintaining a safe and dependable vehicle requires regular tire maintenance, and there are many benefits to getting this service. If it has been too long since your last rotation, don't stress. At Rath Auto Resources, we can help you get the quality auto care you need in Fort Smith, AR. Every vehicle is different, but many drivers get their tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. However, this can vary by vehicle model and other factors. If you aren't sure if you need a rotation, you can easily find out. It is always a wise idea to look in your owner's manual for information about the service schedule for your specific vehicle model. Your owner's manual is a valuable resource that explains all the basics of essential vehicle care. Of course, if you have any questions about services for your vehicle, we would be happy to help. Don't hesitate to give us a call. The Benefits of Regular Rotations Regular rotations help spread the wear on your tires, which allows them to wear out more evenly, making your tires last longer. Preserving the life of your tires also means you won't need to change them as often. Changing your tires can be expensive, so you will love saving money and time. Getting your tires rotated can also improve your driving experience and help your vehicle drive more efficiently. They will also be less susceptible to damage. When you take good care of your tires, you will be less likely to have tire problems on the road, which could leave you stranded. Where To Get Quality Vehicle Service in Fort Smith, AR Many people put off getting regular rotations because they don't feel like they have the time. They may also find it inconvenient. We take the stress out of tire care. When you get car care from us, you will have access to qualified technicians, great deals, and dependable service. You can schedule your next appointment online at a time that is convenient for you. We will help ensure that you get all the benefits of regular rotations without the hassle. Don't overlook tire care if you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Contact us at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith today, and we can help you get the services you need for your car. If you are looking for a reliable vehicle, we can also help you with that. We are ready to assist you with any of your automotive needs. We hope to see you soon!

A burned-out headlight can be a frustrating inconvenience, but it can also be seriously dangerous. Without proper lighting during an evening drive or through a rough thunderstorm, you can be involved in an accident that possibly could have been prevented just by installing new headlights. Strong visibility is essential to safe driving, and knowing the signs of malfunctioning headlights can keep you from finding yourself in a dangerous situation. Signs That You Need New Headlights No Lights The clearest sign that your headlights need immediate replacement is if they won't illuminate at all. Whether they are manual or automatic, your lights should always have the capability of turning on when the ignition is engaged. Broken headlights must be replaced as soon as possible to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road. Malfunctioning headlights may also result in a traffic ticket, as working lights are required by law. Sometimes one headlight will burn out before the other, which can be difficult to notice as your path will just be slightly less illuminated, but still lighted nonetheless. Headlights are typically replaced in pairs because if one light is out then the other is likely to go very soon. Flickering Lights It can be very alarming to be driving on the road when your headlights suddenly begin to flicker. While this may not cause you to panic, it is certainly an urgent sign that the bulbs of your headlights are about to die completely. Flickering is a good indicator that the filament of the bulb is damaged or excessively worn. Similar to how a lightbulb in your home may flicker when it ages, your headlight bulbs can too. If this flickering is ignored then you may end up with completely burnt-out bulbs. Flickering can also be an indicator that your headlight bulbs have a faulty connection, which needs to be addressed as soon as possible. Dimming Lights Properly functioning headlight bulbs are bright and clear, much like any light bulb you use in your home. As your vehicle ages, you may find that the clear plastic lens protecting the bulb has become scratched or cloudy with wear. This can affect how much light is being emitted by the headlights but does not necessarily indicate a problem with the bulb itself. Regularly cleaning these lenses, such as with a car wash, can help prevent this build-up, keeping your visibility high. Headlights do, however, slowly dim as they age, so if your lenses are clear and you are experiencing dimmer light emittance, then it's time to change out the bulbs. Don't wait until it becomes difficult to see in front of you on the street or highway to get them fixed. Come see us today at Rath Auto Resources of Fort Smith if you have a headlight on your vehicle that you aren't sure about. We are happy to service your vehicle and test your lights to make sure they won't fail on you anytime soon. Our experienced technicians have the training and equipment to keep your vehicle in top shape. Image via Pixabay

Your vehicle's radiator keeps the engine cool and prevents it from overheating. The radiator can only perform effectively if all the components of the cooling system work as they should. In the following article, we will discuss why it is vital not to ignore the warning signs and get a radiator repair as soon as possible. Time for a Radiator Repair? 5 Reasons Not to Ignore the Signs 1. Leaks Will Cause Overheating A common sign of radiator problems is leaking. When you see a red or green puddle under your car, it's a sure sign that there is a coolant leak. Radiator leaks are caused by cracks or degrading or loose hoses, which will allow the fluid to escape. Coolant runs between the radiator and the hot engine. This creates pressure which in time will affect the radiator hoses. When there is a leak, it will ultimately lead to overheating. To solve the problem, your technician will have to replace the radiator hoses. 2. Contaminated Coolant Will Clog Up the Radiator When the coolant changes from a healthy red or green color into a brown, oily sludge, it's a sign that the fluid has been contaminated. This sludge will clog up the radiator and prevent it from cooling down the engine. In turn, this will lead to overheating and engine problems. A coolant flush is needed to get rid of all the buildup and clear the system. 3. Rust Will Lead to Corrosion With the combination of liquid, air, and metal, rust is bound to set in, and if it's not sorted out fast, it could damage the cooling system and get into the engine. When a radiator becomes rusty, the rust mixes with the coolant a thick sludge is formed. This can lead to corrosion. There are two ways to see if rust is setting in. You will see the rust on the outside of the radiator. The coolant will also have a brownish color. The radiator will have to be flushed, and the coolant will be replaced. 4. Overheating Will Occur When Idling or Driving If you notice that the temperature gauge spikes when your vehicle is idling, it could be caused by a broken or failing radiator fan. The fan draws air in to cool down the radiator while driving at low speeds or idling. When the fan stops working, your vehicle's temperature will rise when in traffic or waiting at an intersection. 5. Overheating will Cause White Steam or Smoke The white smoke could be coming from under the hood or from the tailpipe. The smoke is caused by an internal coolant leak and will lead to your vehicle overheating. Either way, pull over immediately when it's safe and wait for your vehicle to cool down. This is a serious problem, and our best advice is to contact your technician straight away and ask for assistance. A faulty radiator that is not fixed immediately could cause extensive damage that will be expensive to repair. Contact Rath Auto Resources today. One of our expert technicians will do a thorough radiator inspection and ensure that your vehicle's cooling system is in excellent working order.

The braking system on your vehicle is one of the most critical components to ensure is always working properly. After all, it is the only thing preventing you from crashing into objects because you can't stop. However, drivers sometimes forget to have their brakes inspected on a regular basis and may not know the steps to take when you need to get a brake repair. Get Your Brakes Inspected The first step to take when you think you may need to get your brakes fixed is to take your vehicle to a service center for inspection. Often, this is done at the same time as an oil change, but if you notice that your brakes have gotten mushy or you need more pressure on the brake pedal to stop your vehicle, then you should take your vehicle into a service center immediately to have them checked out. Another sign that it's time for brake service is a squealing or grinding sound coming from your tires when you stop your vehicle. Brake pads are equipped with a sliver of metal that becomes exposed as your pads wear down. Eventually, as the brake pads wear away, the metal sliver comes in contact with the rotors, causing it to squeal. Grinding is even more serious because that means the metal is entirely worn down. Ask About Specials If a service center inspects your brakes and tells you that they need to be repaired, ask about any specials the center is currently offering. In many cases, there will be a deal on parts, including brake pads and rotors. Often, these deals will also include installation, so you don't have to worry about installing them yourself. Typically, you can get your brake inspection free if you opt to have them repaired at the service center. Other service centers might offer you a prepaid gift card if you purchase your brake parts through them, or a brand may be offering a rebate on the brake pads you need to replace. Still other centers may have a discounted brake service package that includes brake pads, machining your rotors, cleaning and lubrication, and brake line inspection. Whatever the deal, it will save you some money if you ask about these specials or coupons before your brakes are serviced. Choose Factory Parts If you decide not to go to your vehicle manufacturer's service center to fix your brakes, be sure you choose genuine brand-specific brake parts if you need to have any replaced. This is because not all pads will fit well with your vehicle, but your manufacturer has specified which parts have been designed for your vehicle's exact make, model, and year. These should be the parts you use for the best results. Of course, if you have your brakes inspected and repaired at your vehicle manufacturer's service center or dealership, you can be sure that only factory-specific parts will be used to replace your work pads and rotors. Not only that, but you'll get superior service from factory-trained technicians as well. This way, you can be sure that your vehicle is in the best possible hands as it is repaired. Getting your brakes repaired is probably not something you look forward to doing, but if you don't, the consequences could be extremely dangerous. Call Rath Auto Resources now to schedule your brake inspection and get the process of fixing your brakes in motion.

As long as you maintain it regularly and make repairs when needed, a good vehicle can serve you and your family for years or even decades. However, every car eventually experiences so much wear that it becomes difficult to operate. Here are some of the most common signs that you should trade in your old car for a newer model with better features and more power. 1. You Need Repairs Often No matter how new your ride is, you'll always need regular maintenance and some occasional repair. However, when problems become more frequent and severe, it could be a sign that your vehicle is reaching the end of its life. Having to get constant repairs is annoying and inconvenient, and the costs for replacing important components such as the transmission often exceeds the value of an older car, truck, or SUV. Instead of dealing with constant issues and worrying about whether you can make it to your next destination without a breakdown, use the money you would otherwise spend on repairs to invest in a newer vehicle. 2. Fuel Efficiency Drops If you notice that your visits to the gas pump are becoming more and more frequent, it may be a sign that your engine's efficiency is falling. At first, the increase in cost may seem small, but those dollars and cents can pile up quickly over time. The drop in efficiency could be from a relatively minor issue like a dirty fuel injector, or you could have a more severe problem. You should get your car inspected by a professional to find out how much repairs will cost. Since newer vehicles are much more efficient than the options available a few years ago, replacing your car will make your fuel costs lower than ever. Using an efficient hybrid or electric vehicle can reduce your transportation costs most over time. 3. Your Vehicle Becomes Unsafe If your car's axles become unstable, your engine's pistons knock loudly and frequently, or your belt system is wearing out belts regularly, you could have an issue that risks the safety of you and your passengers. Unstable axles can lead to a lost wheel or a broken axle, causing a serious accident. Replacing belts can often get expensive quickly, and you could get into a wreck if a belt snaps while you're moving down a highway. Engine pistons that knock loudly often signal an upcoming engine failure. If you start hearing strange noises, have your vehicle checked by an expert. You could also notice a burning smell from excess friction on your belts, an engine that's too hot, or faulty wiring. Your vehicle's electronics could stop working, and you could even have to deal with a fire near the engine. These risks often mean that insuring an older vehicle is more expensive than insuring a newer car. Many insurance companies also give discounts for safety and driver assistance features such as lane-keeping assistance, blind spot warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. When it's time to trade in your old vehicle, head to Rath Auto Services. Their experienced staff will guide you through their impressive inventory and help you find your ideal vehicle. Image via RathAuto.com

Owning a car is expensive, but some cars hold their value better than others. A new car takes the biggest hit in depreciation within the first year of ownership. Check out a few of the used cars that maintain their value most as you're deciding which vehicle to buy. 1. Subaru Outback The Subaru Outback has consistently earned a spot on Kelley Blue Book's “Best Resale Value” list over the past 17 years. This hatchback model is a great option for a wide range of buyers, including families and adventure-seekers. It's spacious, offering a large backseat with room for taller passengers and child car seats, and boasts a big cargo area for all your essentials. This crossover is also quite efficient. When you choose the standard four-cylinder engine, you can save at the pump without sacrificing too much power. In 2018, Subaru started including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, while the auto company's EyeSight driver assistance package became standard in 2019. 2. Toyota 4Runner The Toyota 4Runner is another model that holds its value well. This truck-based SUV is unique in that it's designed for utility in a world where most crossovers are geared toward comfort. Toyota has maintained the body-on-frame platform for this particular member of its lineup, prioritizing towing capacity and off-road capabilities. It is available with a third row of seating, which makes it an option for larger families, especially those that like to spend their weekends exploring. 3. Nissan Frontier Most pickup trucks consistently maintain their value better than other models, and one example of this is the Nissan Frontier. It's been around since Nissan launched it in 2005, although it has undergone a number of interior and exterior design enhancements. This mid-sized pickup has several available bed lengths and cab sizes to accommodate every need. You can also count on the reliability of the four- and six-cylinder engines that boast impressive power output and large displacement. 4. Subaru Forester The Subaru Forester earned a spot on KBB's “ 12 Best Family Cars” in 2019, but it's also a model that holds its value very well. Subaru redesigned the popular crossover in 2019, featuring the same global platform as the Crosstrek, which has been very well-received. Some of the most appealing enhancements to the 2019 model include more interior space in both rows of seating and a wider opening to load bulky items into the cargo area. If you plan to take your Forester off the beaten path, you'll appreciate the 8.7 inches of ground clearance. Certain upgrades also make the Forester more valuable, as well as more luxurious. This crossover is available with an all-weather package that includes heated side mirrors and front seats, along with a windshield de-icer, dual rear-seat USB ports, and roof rails to help you carry your adventure gear. The 2019 model also comes standard with EyeSight, Subaru's safety suite that includes automatic braking and throttle management, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. At Rath Auto Resources, we have an extensive selection of pre-owned models that hold their value. Shop our inventory to pick out the perfect vehicle for your lifestyle. Image via RathAuto.com

Air conditioners are important pieces of equipment in any vehicle, especially in the summer months. Whether you're just going across town or on a road trip, a good air conditioner keeps you cool. But like other parts of your car, air conditioners need attention from time to time to keep them in good condition. Here are five signs to look for so you can prevent it from failing on the hottest of days. Unit Blows Hot Air If you turn on your air conditioner and it blows hot air instead of cool air, that's a significant issue. However, if the air is simply a little warm or cooler than normal, the problem may just be that the air conditioner needs refrigerant put into it. If the air is hot or new refrigerant doesn't address the problem, take your vehicle in for a service check by trained professionals. Water in Your Vehicle Your car has many different fluids in it to keep it in working order. At no time should any fluids, such as water, end up on the inside of the car. Air conditioners actually pull moisture out of the air in the cabin and it drains on the outside of the car. This is why you might see a wet spot on the pavement when you park it. One of the common reasons water backs up into the interior of the car is due to a clogged duct or hose. In cases like this, you'll find water stains or puddles on the floorboards or underneath the dashboard. Leaking Refrigerant If refrigerant starts to leak, it serves as another sign that you probably need to have your air conditioner looked at. Without this fluid, there's nothing that helps the air conditioner blow out cool air. With that being said, refrigerant leaks are not easy to spot. This is because it evaporates when it hits the air. So diagnosing it is more complex than other problems. Turning the car over to a professional is the smartest thing to do if you suspect this issue. A Noisy Air Conditioner Every air conditioner produces a sound thanks to the fan inside of it blowing air out. If you hear a noise other than a fan, that means something else is at play. Uncommon sounds heard include banging or rattling. Since the system is actually built to suck out moisture, small things like leaves or even mice nests get pulled into it by mistake. A worn out condenser or compressor belt are also common causes. Have your auto repair professional take a look at this issue and find the problem. Bad Odors When your car's air conditioner functions as it should, you shouldn't smell anything bad. If you turn on the air conditioning and smell something similar to mildew, mold might be growing inside the system. This has serious health issues attached to it if it continues. Have it addressed immediately. Air conditioning is heavenly during warm weather if it's working properly. Stay cool this summer by looking out for these troublesome symptoms. If any of these signs sound familiar, go to your dealer's service department as soon as possible. Photo by Doug Waldron | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Have you checked the condition of your tires lately? Many drivers treat tires the same way as their personal health — taking them for granted until something goes wrong. It's not an exaggeration to say that your life depends on the quality of your tires. A blowout can be tremendously dangerous, especially if it happens on a busy road. Knowing when to change your tires is critical. We at Rath Auto Resources want our customers to be happy and healthy. These are four sure signs your vehicle needs new tires. Your Car Wanders All Over the Road When your tires are getting worn down, they often wear out unevenly. This can cause your car to wander all over the road when you're driving. Keep an eye out for this problem. If you experience it, stop and check the condition of your tires. Find a penny and then turn it upside down, so Lincoln's head is pointing toward the earth. Next, stick the penny into the tread of your tire. If Lincoln's head is covered up by the tread of the tire, your tires might be alright. However, if you can see all of Lincoln's head, then your tires are worn too far down and will need to be replaced soon. The Factory Wear Bars Are Showing Another sign that it's time to replace your tires is if you can see the factory wear bars. These wear bars are placed in the middle of the tread of all tires. Factory wear bars run across the tread and are hardly even noticeable when the tires are new. However, the factory wear bars become easier to see over time. When they get to the same level as the tire tread, it's definitely time to get new tires. The Tires Have Cracks, Bubbles, or Bulges Extreme weather conditions can be rough on your tires and cause them to deteriorate faster. As tires age and are regularly exposed to extreme weather, the rubber weakens, and little cracks appear on the surface. Minor cracking is common, but if you see a lot of splintering, it's a clear sign that it's time to take your car in for new tires. Also, watch out for any abnormal bubbles or bulges. If you notice one, take your vehicle to a professional tire store immediately for inspection. Lots of things can be tough on your tires, from extreme swings in temperature to potholes, rough terrain, and long road trips. These things may be hard on your tires, so it's a good idea to inspect them on a regular basis. Also, make sure to have them rotated and aligned as often as the owner manual recommends. That way, your tires will wear out more evenly and stay in good shape longer. Get in the practice of regularly inspecting your tires, and you can help prevent big problems like tire blowouts. Most tires have a manufacturer's warranty, so if they wear down too fast or show signs of a problem, take them back to where you purchased them. They might still be covered by the manufacturer's warranty. Photo by mikepetrucci | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0