This Independence Day weekend, roads will be packed. With AAA projecting over 70 million travelers hitting highways for trips longer than 50 miles, even one neglected tire can turn a holiday road trip into a roadside disaster.
Heat, Highways, and Tire Blowouts
Corey Rehburg, a seasoned tire expert, knows exactly what rising temps do to your tires — and it’s not pretty.
“This time of year, it gets super hot, and unfortunately, as temperatures increase, so do your chances of tire failure,” he said. Short and clear. That heat beats down on old rubber, wearing it down fast.
Rehburg warns that a worn tire tread loses its cooling ability. No cool means more friction, and more friction means a higher risk of blowouts — the last thing you want barreling down the interstate at 70 mph.
How Old Is Too Old?
Drivers often forget that tires don’t last forever. Experts say replace them every six years. If they hit 10? Don’t even think about it — they’re no longer serviceable.
One line to remember: old tires are time bombs on asphalt.
And it’s not just blowouts. Bald tires hurt your car’s gas mileage, traction, and braking distance. Suddenly that cheap road trip feels a lot more expensive.
Quick Test You Can Do at Home
You don’t need to be a mechanic to check if your tires are up to the challenge.
Here’s a penny trick:
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Grab a penny, turn Lincoln upside down.
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Insert it into the tire tread.
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See all of Lincoln’s head? That tire’s done.
If Honest Abe’s scalp is showing, get to the shop before you hit the highway.
Tire Shops Stepping Up
Some local tire shops, like Discount Tires, are trying to help travelers roll safe. They’re offering free air checks and inspections — takes just minutes, but could save you hours stuck on the shoulder with hazards flashing.
A tire tech shared these quick tips:
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Check air pressure when tires are cold.
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Inspect for nails, cracks, or bulges.
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Don’t forget the spare!
The Cost of Ignoring It
A blowout at 70 mph can flip a summer vacation on its head — or worse. Rehburg doesn’t sugarcoat it: “Having a tire fail can be catastrophic.”
It’s not just you, either. Debris from a shredded tire can slam into other cars or cause multi-vehicle pileups. One driver’s bald tire can quickly become a stranger’s nightmare.
Road-Trip Ready: Last-Minute Checklist
Before you pack the cooler and crank up the playlist, run through this quick table for tire basics:
| Check | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Tire Tread Depth | Stops you from hydroplaning |
| Tire Age | Prevents unexpected blowouts |
| Tire Pressure | Saves gas, keeps tires from overheating |
| Visual Inspection | Catches cracks, nails, or bulges |
One tiny puncture you missed could ruin your plans faster than a traffic jam.
Stay Safe, Stay Moving
Road trips should be about fireworks, family, and freedom — not waiting for a tow truck under the blazing July sun. So, check your tread, test that penny, swing by for a free inspection if you’re unsure.
Because when it comes to tires, it’s way cheaper — and safer — to be picky before you hit the road than to pay the price after.
