How Long Can Tires Last?
3 Answers
Generally, the service life of tires can be determined by two criteria: the usage time should not exceed 5 years; and the mileage under mixed road conditions should not exceed 60,000 kilometers. This standard applies to regular family cars. If the owner frequently drives on unpaved roads such as construction sites, the tires should be replaced earlier. The following situations require tire replacement: 1. When the tire's skeleton material is damaged, the tire must be replaced immediately. 2. When the tire tread wears down to the wear indicator, the tire should be replaced as soon as possible. 3. When the tire has a leak that cannot be repaired, such as a puncture in the sidewall, it needs to be replaced promptly. 4. When the tire suddenly develops unexplained noises, uneven wear, pulling to one side, or abnormal wear after some time of use, the cause should be investigated and the tire replaced in time. 5. Even if the tire appears completely normal, if its service life exceeds 5 to 6 years, replacement should be considered.
When I was driving a taxi, I paid the most attention to the condition of the tires. Under normal driving conditions, tires can last 4 to 6 years or 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers, but the actual lifespan depends on three key points: if the tread depth is below 1.6 mm, they must be replaced immediately; if the sidewall cracks are thicker than a strand of hair, they need immediate attention; and driving with low tire pressure for a long time will cause the tires to retire early. Cars that frequently drive on mountain roads will experience 30% faster wear. I've seen many drivers skimp on tire replacement costs, only to end up skidding and rear-ending in the rain. Measuring tread depth monthly with a coin and parking away from direct sunlight can extend tire life by half a year.
I take care of both cars at home, and I make it a habit to closely monitor the tires after three years. Tire pressure should be maintained between 2.3-2.5 bar—too high and the center wears out quickly, too low and the sidewalls get chewed up. In winter, low temperatures make the rubber stiff, while summer sun accelerates aging. Cars parked in garages have tires that last two years longer than those parked outdoors. Don’t skimp when replacing tires—choose ones with 3T ratings (traction/temperature/treadwear). Last time, I regretted buying a set of budget tires with worn markings—they developed bulges after just 20,000 kilometers.
