Purchasing New Tires - Maintenance & Services

Your Safety Starts with Proper Tire Care

At Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC, your safety is our top priority. We're committed to keeping your vehicle dependable, safe, and ready for the road. One of the most critical - and often overlooked - components of vehicle safety is your tires.

If your tires are worn, underinflated, or damaged, even the most advanced safety systems and engineering can't perform at their best. That's why staying on top of tire condition is essential.

If you're unsure about your tires' health, stop by Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell for a professional inspection. We'll help you determine whether it's time for a replacement and guide you on how to maintain them for maximum performance and safety.

Why Are Old or Bad Tires Dangerous?

Your tires are your vehicle's only contact with the road-when they're compromised, so is your safety. Old, worn, under-inflated, or poorly matched tires can lead to dangerous handling, poor braking, and a higher risk of blowouts or hydroplaning. In high-stakes driving situations, the wrong tires can make you feel like a passenger in your own car.

Signs Your Tires Need Air

Underinflated tires often appear flatter at the road contact point. This causes uneven wear on the sidewalls, reduced fuel efficiency, and in severe cases, complete tire failure. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, reduce the contact patch-making it harder for your car to grip the road, especially during sudden turns or stops. For the safest and smoothest ride, check your vehicle's recommended pressure (usually listed on the driver's side door) or visit Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell, MI for assistance.

Signs of Low Tread Depth

Low tread reduces traction, especially in wet conditions, increasing your risk of hydroplaning and poor vehicle control. Your tire's tread channels water and debris-without enough depth, it simply can't perform. Try the penny test at home, or better yet, bring your vehicle to our shop in Howell, MI for a professional tread inspection.

Signs of Tire Damage

Look out for embedded debris, cracks, bulges, or bubbling. You may also feel vibration or hear odd noises when driving-both of which may indicate internal damage or structural failure. If you suspect an issue, it's best to avoid handling the tire and let a pro at Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC take a look.

What Can (and Can't) Be Repaired

Small punctures within the tread area can usually be safely repaired with a plug and patch. However, damage to the sidewall, large gashes, or tires driven on while flat are often beyond repair. Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC follows strict manufacturer guidelines to ensure any repair made is 100% safe.

We offer the following services to help you prolong the life of your tires:

Balancing
If you feel excessive vibration in the car, or wobbling of the steering wheel, your tires may be unbalanced. Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC has the professional equipment and technicians to measure the balance of your vehicle's tires and make necessary corrections. Call us at 517-552-3040 if you have questions so we can evaluate your tires.

Tire Repairs
Our tire experts inspect your tires to determine if they can be safely repaired or need replacing. We follow strict safety standards-if the tire can be plugged and patched properly, our certified technicians will handle the repair to get you safely back on the road. For punctures or sidewall damage beyond repair, we'll recommend the right replacement option.

We Carry Top Tire Brands
Tire quality matters. That's why Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell, MI carries trusted major brands built for performance, longevity, and safety. Whether you drive a compact car or manage a fleet, we'll help you choose the best tires for your needs.

Wheel Alignment Services
A proper wheel alignment adjusts your suspension and steering geometry to factory specs, ensuring even tire wear, better handling, and increased fuel efficiency. Misalignments can occur over time or after hitting potholes and curbs. For expert alignment services, schedule a visit to Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC.

At Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC, customer safety is our number one priority. We hope you'll be a little safer with this information. If you'd like to talk about whether your tires may need inspection or replacement, call us at 517-552-3040 or visit us at 6000 Pinckney Rd in Howell, MI. Happy travels!

We offer most major brands of tires:

Tire Related FAQs

At what mileage interval should I rotate my tires?

Most manufacturers recommend rotating tires every 5,000-7,500 miles. However, this can vary depending on your vehicle's drivetrain and driving style. Let Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell help determine the ideal rotation schedule.

What are the advantages to rotating my tires?

Tire rotation ensures even wear, extending the life of your tires and promoting a smoother, more balanced ride. It also improves handling and reduces the risk of uneven traction.

How do you check tire pressure?

Remove the valve cap and press a tire gauge onto the stem. Compare the reading to your manufacturer's recommended PSI (found in your manual or inside the driver's door). Re-cap the valve and add or release air as needed. Or visit Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC-we're happy to check it for you.

Does my tire warranty influence my rotation schedule?

Tire manufacturers know that tire rotation is important for even tread wear. Tire mileage warranties are most often set by the manufacturers with tire rotations included. Failing to rotate your tires may void your tires manufacturer warranty.

What throws tires out of balance?

If you hit a curb or pothole your wheel-tire assembly can get out of balance. Everyday wear on tires and wheels can also cause an imbalance. Many experts recommended that you get your tires balanced every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every 2 years.

If you buy a new set of tires, you may find that tire balancing is included in your purchase. At Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC, we can check your tire balance and make any necessary adjustments for you.

How do you check tire tread depth?

Check all of your tires in multiple locations by inserting a penny into the tread groove on your tire with Lincoln's head facing toward you and the top of his head touching the tire.

If you can see all of Lincoln's head, your tires are worn out and you need new tires. Of course, you can bring your vehicle to Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell and our experts can check it for you.

How does snow tire usage influence rotation decisions?

If you have snow tires check your tire pressure and rotate your winter tires on a regular schedule. Rotating snow and winter tires is important to maintaining even treadwear and preserving maximum traction in icy conditions.

Is it okay to mix tire brands on a car?

Sometimes mixing brands and models on your car is unavoidable, but having a complete matching set is best. If possible, use the same tire on the front or rear wheels.

While it's not usually advised, you can mix different tire brands on the same car, if you follow a few simple guidelines. Those include: never mix winter tires with all-season or summer tires; and to not mix run-flat tires with non-run-flat tires. For guidelines in the Howell area, give us a call at 517-552-3040.

Discover More About Tire Repair/Purchasing New Tires At Murphy's Family Auto Service, LLC in Howell

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