Squealing tires. What could be causing the problem?

Squealing tires are a sound no driver wants to hear. Not only is it annoying, but it can also indicate a serious problem with your car, or at least with its tires. In this article, you'll learn what can cause squealing tires and the best solution for you.

What does squealing tires mean?

Squealing tires are usually a sign that something is wrong. It can be caused by a variety of factors, from incorrect tire pressure, to a faulty steering system, to natural tire wear from heavy use or age. Squealing tires are usually especially loud when turning or braking.

Squealing tires are not only annoying but can also negatively impact your safety on the road. Therefore, it's important to identify and address the potential causes of this annoying problem as soon as possible.

Here are some situations where tires may start squealing:

• When turning . If your tires squeal when turning, it may indicate a problem with the steering system or incorrect tire pressure.
• When braking . Squealing tires when braking may indicate a problem with the braking system or tire wear, which is usually indicated by shallow tread or cracked sidewalls.
• When driving on uneven surfaces . If your tires squeal when driving on uneven surfaces, it may indicate a suspension problem or incorrect tire pressure.
• When driving on wet surfaces . Squealing tires when driving on wet surfaces may indicate a tire traction problem, which may be caused by tread wear.

Remember that each of these situations requires a different approach to ensure a quick and effective solution. Therefore, it's important to accurately identify the causes of the squeaking noise before attempting to resolve the issue.

The main causes of tire squealing

One of the most common causes of tire squealing is incorrect tire pressure. Under- or over-inflating can cause abnormal tire wear and lead to squealing. The solution is to inflate or deflate the tire. If your car is equipped with TPMS sensors , the car's computer will alert you to a drop in pressure. Otherwise, you'll need to check your tire pressure manually. Regularly checking tire pressure is crucial to maintaining tire health and preventing squealing. You can do this yourself with a tire pressure gauge or use the professional services of any professional tire shop.

Another cause could be a problem with the steering system. If your tires squeal when turning, it could indicate a problem with the steering system, such as worn wheel bearings. Tire wear is another common cause of squealing. Tires that are worn or unevenly worn can squeal, especially when turning. Regularly rotating your tires can help prevent uneven wear.

How to solve the problem of squeaky tires?

Solving squealing tires depends on the cause. If the problem is tire pressure, adjusting the pressure to the manufacturer's recommendations may be the solution. You can do this yourself using a compressor or a standard pump with a gauge, or you can consult a professional tire repair shop. If the problem is the steering system, a visit to a mechanic may be necessary. A mechanic can inspect the system and identify any issues that could be causing the squealing. If the problem is tread wear or tire damage, replacing the tires with new ones may be the solution.

When is a tire service visit necessary?

If tire squealing persists despite these steps, a tire repair shop may be necessary. A professional tire repair shop can thoroughly inspect your tires and steering system to identify the cause of the problem. Remember, regular tire inspection and maintenance are crucial for road safety. Good quality tires with adequate tread are crucial for maintaining traction and effective braking.

How often should you replace your tires with new ones?

How often you need to replace your tires depends on many factors, such as driving style, road and weather conditions, as well as the quality of the tires themselves. Generally, most experts recommend replacing your tires every 5 to 6 years, regardless of tread condition. However, it's important to regularly check your tires, regardless of their age. If you notice any signs of wear, such as cracks, bumps, bulges, or tread depth (less than 3 mm), you should replace your tires as soon as possible.

Remember that worn tires can significantly increase braking distances and reduce traction, especially on wet roads, which can lead to serious accidents. Therefore, it's crucial to keep your tires in good condition and inspect them regularly.

Squealing tires are a warning sign that shouldn't be ignored. Regardless of the cause, it's important to address the issue as soon as possible to ensure road safety. Remember that regular tire inspection and maintenance are crucial to keeping them in good condition and preventing squealing. If you experience any issues, it's best to consult a professional tire service or an experienced mechanic as soon as possible.