Do all four tires need to be replaced at 60,000 kilometers?
2 Answers
It is recommended to replace all four tires at 60,000 kilometers. Since the tires have experienced a certain degree of wear, they should be replaced promptly to ensure safety. Criteria for determining tire replacement: If the tires show signs of aging, they should be replaced immediately, regardless of how long they have been used or the extent of wear; if the remaining groove depth of the tire tread reaches or falls below 1.6mm, the tire must be replaced because its drainage capacity has significantly decreased, making driving on wet surfaces more dangerous; additionally, damaged tires should also be evaluated for replacement. For example, tires that have been run underinflated may still function when inflated, but their internal structure may have been compromised, so it is advisable to replace them promptly. It is especially important to note that bulging tires should not be used any further. The role of tires: As a core component of a vehicle, tires are crucial for driving comfort and safety; tires are rubber components that not only wear out with use but also have a lifespan. The lifespan of a new tire is generally 4 years from the date of installation, after which replacement is recommended regardless of the actual mileage; in terms of mileage, 60,000 kilometers exceeds the commonly recommended 50,000 kilometers for replacement; under normal driving conditions, after 50,000 kilometers, the adhesion of the drainage grooves on most tires significantly deteriorates, reducing friction between the tire and the road surface. This makes braking on slippery surfaces more difficult, increasing the risk of rollovers, and also makes the tires more prone to blowouts on poor road surfaces; in reality, 1.6mm is the critical threshold, not just a performance decline line. Some experts suggest replacing tires when the tread depth falls below 3mm.
Whether all tires need to be replaced at 60,000 kilometers depends on the actual condition. As a mechanic, I often remind customers to focus on three key aspects: if the tread depth is below 1.6mm, replacement is mandatory; sidewall cracks indicate aging and the tire should be retired; also check if all four tires wear evenly. For safety, it's recommended to replace all four tires simultaneously, as the difference in grip between new and old tires can cause braking deviation. Last time, a customer only replaced the front tires and nearly lost control during a rainy corner. If budget is tight, prioritize replacing the drive wheels first, but remember to complete the other two soon. Don’t forget that tires older than five years should be replaced even if unworn, as the rubber hardens and cracks. It’s best to inspect tire condition quarterly—early detection and action save money.
