After How Many Years Should Car Tires Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Car tires should generally be replaced every 3 to 5 years. Here are several situations when tire replacement is necessary: 1. Tires must be replaced when the tread groove depth wears down to 1.6mm, otherwise accidents may easily occur; 2. Replacement is required when the wear indicator bars (horizontal lines) on the tire shoulders become visible; 3. Tires need to be replaced after experiencing blowouts due to accidents or if bulges are detected. Whether tires need replacement should be determined based on three comprehensive factors: wear level, aging degree, and damage condition. Immediate replacement is necessary if any one of these factors fails to meet standards, ensuring driving safety. Tires often operate under complex and demanding conditions, thus requiring high load-bearing capacity, traction performance, and cushioning properties.
I've been driving for over ten years and believe that deciding when to replace tires shouldn't solely depend on time. Some friends who don't drive much may need to check tread depth after five or six years. It's recommended to use a one-yuan coin for testing—if the tread covers the national emblem, it's too shallow. For those who frequently drive on highways or rough roads, severe wear might occur by 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. Tire aging isn't just about prolonged use; it's also related to UV exposure and air humidity. Over time, rubber hardens and cracks. Safety is paramount—old tires increase braking distance, are prone to skidding in rain, and may even blow out, damaging the car. Regular inspections are a good habit; saving small money now could lead to bigger repair costs later. Don't push your luck—replace them roughly every five years as needed to ensure safety and reliability.
I'm a new driver, and my instructor taught me the basic rules for changing tires during driving lessons. Simply put, tires can last five to six years, and you should also pay attention when the mileage reaches 50,000 kilometers. But don’t just memorize it rigidly—consider how often you drive and the road conditions. For example, I live in the city and don’t commute much, driving only 20,000 kilometers in four years, but I still need to check if the tread has worn down. Be extra cautious when there’s ice in winter. An easy way is to glance at the tires every month for cracks or bulges and spend a few minutes measuring the tread depth. Developing this habit saves money and gives peace of mind. Anyway, don’t delay too long—waiting until the tires are completely worn out and needing an emergency replacement is more expensive. New drivers tend to overlook this.
