At what level of wear should car tires be replaced?
3 Answers
Here are four situations when car tires need to be replaced: 1. Severe tread wear - Generally, there are wear indicators in the middle of the tread. The thickness of the wear indicator is 2mm. If the tire's thickness wears to within 4mm of the limit mark (i.e., 6mm from the deepest part of the groove), the tire should be replaced. 2. Excessive tire repairs - Besides wear, punctures from sharp objects are also a major factor affecting tire lifespan. If the repair is done properly, one or two repairs may not significantly impact driving. However, if the number of repairs exceeds three, caution is needed because no matter how tightly the tire is repaired, gaps will always form between the repair material and the original tire. This can lead to air leakage or blowouts under high-speed or high-temperature driving conditions. 3. Rubber aging - Rubber materials are prone to aging under external factors like light, heat, and moisture, gradually cracking, hardening, and becoming brittle until they lose their usability entirely. Therefore, even if a car is left unused for a long time, tires may still need replacement. If the storage environment is harsh, tires can deteriorate over time. 4. Blowouts, bulges, or sidewall cracks also require tire replacement.
I've been driving a taxi for nearly twenty years and have seen plenty of tire wear issues. The key is to replace them when the tread depth drops below 1.6mm, as per national standards. Driving at night or in rainy conditions with shallow tread can more than double braking distances, increasing the risk of skidding and accidents. Last year, an acquaintance lost control during a turn due to bald tires—fortunately, no one was hurt. Beyond tread depth, I also watch for uneven wear patterns, like one side wearing significantly more than the other, which could indicate misaligned suspension or inconsistent tire pressure. During breaks, I often use a coin to check tread depth—if the national emblem disappears when inserted, it’s a warning sign. It’s best to get a full vehicle inspection every six months, especially before highway trips, to ensure tire safety. Don’t wait for a blowout to regret negligence. Safety first—never cut corners to save money or effort.
I commute by car daily with tight schedules, but I take tire replacement very seriously. When tread depth wears below 1.6mm, replacement is absolutely necessary as it becomes more dangerous on wet roads. I monitor wear patterns – if the center tread wears faster, it might indicate overinflation; edge wear usually suggests underinflation or uneven wheel alignment. Don't ignore small bulges or cracks either, as they signal internal damage. Monthly tread depth checks using free tools at auto shops or gas stations are convenient. Remember, regular tire rotation extends tire life and prevents uneven wear. Safe driving isn't just about yourself—it affects the hearts of family and friends too. Addressing issues promptly to avoid accidents is the wise choice.
