Keep Your Vehicle Safe with Quality Tires from Barnett's Garage
At Barnett's Garage, we’re committed to keeping you on the road safely with a reliable vehicle. One of the most common issues we see in our shop is tire problems. Your tires are the only part of your car that makes direct contact with the road—so if they aren’t in top shape, all the advanced safety features in your vehicle may not be enough to protect you.
To help you stay safe, here’s a quick guide on the importance of tire health and when it’s time for a replacement.
Why Are Worn or Damaged Tires Dangerous?
If you've ever lost control of a vehicle, you know how terrifying it can be. Worn-out, underinflated, or improperly balanced tires can put you at serious risk, especially in poor weather conditions. Tires are designed for specific performance needs, and when they’re neglected or misused, they can fail unexpectedly—leading to dangerous situations on the road.
Signs Your Tires Need Air
Checking your tire pressure regularly can prevent uneven wear, improve fuel efficiency, and extend the life of your tires. Signs that your tires may need air include:
A wider-than-normal contact patch (the area touching the road)
Poor fuel economy
Increased wear on the tire’s edges
On the flip side, overinflated tires can reduce traction by shrinking the contact patch, making it harder to control your vehicle. The correct tire pressure is printed on the side of each tire, so be sure to check it frequently.
Signs Your Tread Is Too Worn
Tread depth is crucial for maintaining traction and preventing hydroplaning. As your tires wear down, they lose their ability to grip the road effectively. While the “penny test” is a common way to check tread depth, it’s best to have a professional inspect them. Not all tires wear the same way, and we’re happy to provide expert advice on whether it’s time for a replacement.
Signs of Tire Damage
Regular visual inspections can help catch problems early. Look for:
Nails, rocks, or other debris embedded in the tread
Gashes, bulges, or cracks in the sidewalls
Hissing sounds, which indicate air leaks
If your car starts making unusual noises, feels unstable, or vibrates excessively, pull over and check your tires immediately. Driving on a damaged or flat tire can lead to more expensive repairs—or worse, an accident.
When Can a Tire Be Repaired?
We always aim to save you money by repairing tires when it’s safe to do so. Small punctures in the tread can often be patched and plugged, but some damage is beyond repair. Tires that have been driven on while flat or have punctures near the sidewall should be replaced. Our technicians follow manufacturer guidelines to determine whether your tire is safe for continued use.
Tire Services We Offer
We provide a full range of tire maintenance services to keep your vehicle performing at its best:
✅ Alignments – Ensures proper wheel angles to reduce tire wear and improve handling.
✅ Balancing – Eliminates vibrations caused by uneven weight distribution in your wheels.
✅ Repairs – We properly plug and patch minor punctures when safe.
✅ Inspections – We check for wear, damage, and foreign objects that could cause problems.
✅ Rotations – Extends tire life by evening out wear patterns (recommended every 5,000–8,000 miles).
Quality Tires for Every Vehicle
At Barnett's Garage, we know that tire quality affects performance, safety, and fuel efficiency. That’s why we only carry top-tier tire brands to ensure you get the best value for your money. We also offer fleet tire management services to keep your business vehicles running smoothly.
Your safety is our top priority. If you have concerns about your tires, visit us at Barnett's Garage on 1449 Union St Spartanburg, SC 29302 or give us a call at (864) 585-6044. We’re here to help keep you safe on the road—happy travels!
Tire-Related FAQs – Barnett’s Garage
At what mileage interval should I rotate my tires?
Experts recommend rotating your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. However, your vehicle's specific needs depend on its drivetrain and your driving habits. More aggressive driving in the Spartanburg area may require more frequent rotations. At Barnett’s Garage, our experts can help you determine the ideal rotation schedule for your vehicle.
What are the benefits of rotating my tires?
Regular tire rotations even out tread wear, helping maintain a smooth and comfortable ride. This simple service also extends the lifespan of your tires and improves safety by preventing pulling and ensuring better grip on the road.
How do you check tire pressure?
Remove the cap from the tire’s air valve and keep it in a safe place.
Press a tire pressure gauge against the valve stem for a second or two.
Read the gauge and compare it to your vehicle’s recommended pressure (found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker near the driver’s side door).
Replace the valve cap when finished.
If you're unsure or want a professional check, bring your vehicle to Barnett’s Garage—we’ll handle it for you!
Does my tire warranty affect my rotation schedule?
Yes! Many tire manufacturers require regular tire rotations as part of their mileage warranties. Neglecting rotations may void your warranty, so it's important to stick to the recommended schedule.
What causes tires to become unbalanced?
Hitting potholes, curbs, or general wear and tear can throw your wheel-tire assembly out of balance. Experts recommend balancing your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or at least every two years. If you purchase a new set of tires, balancing is often included. At Barnett’s Garage, we can check and correct your tire balance to keep your ride smooth.
How do you check tire tread depth?
Use the penny test:
Insert a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down.
If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tires are too worn and should be replaced.
For a more precise measurement, bring your vehicle to Barnett’s Garage—we’ll inspect your tread and let you know if it's time for new tires.
How does snow tire usage affect rotation decisions?
If you use winter tires, regular rotations are crucial to ensure even tread wear and maximum traction in icy conditions. It’s also important to check tire pressure frequently, as cold weather can cause fluctuations.
Is it okay to mix different tire brands on my car?
While it’s best to have a matching set of tires, sometimes mixing brands is unavoidable. If you must mix brands, follow these guidelines:
Do not mix winter tires with all-season or summer tires.
Do not mix run-flat tires with regular tires.
Try to keep matching tires on the front and rear axles.
For expert advice on the best tires for your vehicle, call Barnett’s Garage at (864) 585-6044.
Have more tire-related questions? Visit us at Barnett’s Garage or call us at (864) 585-6044 for expert tire services in Spartanburg, SC. We’re here to help keep you safe on the road! 🚗🔧