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  HOW TO CHECK YOUR TIRE CONDITION

  Besides air, your tires also need tread to get traction. Otherwise, with the slightest drizzle, your car will look like your Pomeranian when it tries to run across the kitchen floor.

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  To check the tread, look at it. It can be kind of hard to see. You might need to go grab your designer eyeglasses from your attache. If you notice metal wires, you're about six months overdue for new tires.

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  Modern tires have tread-wear indicators that run perpendicular to the grooves in the tread. You still with me? I know this is complicated, but it's simpler than the plot of that romantic comedy screenplay you're working on. If the tread has worn down to where it's flush with the indicators, you need new tires.

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  If the tread indicator method is still too tough, you can always use the quarter test to check your tread. Stick a quarter in the grooves on your tire, with George Washington going in head first. At least some part of that powdered hairdo should be covered by your tread. If you can see any space above his dome, it's time for new tires. If you're in need of a quarter, you might try putting a tooth under your pillow. Your mom—I mean, the tooth fairy—might leave you a little something.

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