How to Check Tires for Uneven Wear

December 2, 2024

Keeping your tires in peak condition is essential for their lifespan and safety. Here's how to effectively check for uneven wear:

Park on a Level Surface: Begin by finding a flat surface to park your vehicle. This ensures stability while you inspect all four tires.
Visual Inspection of Tread: Look closely at the tread of each tire. Examine the surface for any sections that appear more worn down than others.
Use a Tread Depth Gauge: For more accuracy, you can use a tread depth gauge. If you don’t have one, a quarter can be an alternative tool—insert it into the tread grooves to measure depth.
Compare Tire Sides: Inspect both the inner and outer edges of each tire. Look for any significant differences in wear patterns or signs of feathering.
Check for Damage: Scan for visible damage like cracks or bulges, which can be indicators of more serious issues.
Repeat for All Tires: Follow this process for each tire, ensuring none are overlooked.

Alignment issues, improper inflation, or suspension problems often cause uneven wear. By spotting these early, you can save money on repairs and keep your car running smoothly. As part of Wayside Garage's Maintenance Plan, we recommend scheduling an alignment check every 10,000 miles, ensuring your tires wear evenly and perform at their best.

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Brake inspection, Car safety, Brake maintenance, Brake pad replacement, Wayside Garage

WHEN SHOULD I GET MY BRAKES INSPECTED?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

Not sure when to check your brakes? Learn the signs and timing for brake inspections — and why October is a smart time to visit Wayside Garage in Seaside, CA.

ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.