Though they may not get the attention that some other components of the car get, the tires are one of the most crucial aspects of a vehicle. After all, they are the only part that is contact with the ground at all times and if they are not in good shape it can put a serious dent in your car's safety. Still, some people may not know how to best maintain their tires and when it's time to get new ones.

It can be complicated to know when the time is right. Some people may judge their quality based on age and others say that tread quality is the best indicator. To get a good gage on when you should replace your tires, there are a few things you should take into consideration, Edmunds says.

Where you're driving can have a significant impact on how long your tires last. According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), climate can play a substantial role in the lifespan of tires, and factors such as heat and exposure to sunlight may mean they won't last as long.

How you take care of your tires is also important to take into consideration. For one thing, if they are not properly inflated or if you drive recklessly (like occasionally running over curbs) then chances are your wheels will  wear out faster.

While there are no set NHTSA guidelines regarding the the age limit on tires, other groups are a little bit more forthcoming with information. According to Edmunds, some carmakers say that tires should be replaced after about six years, while tire manufacturers say that their products can top out at 10 years.