How many kilometers does an SUV tire need to be replaced?
2 Answers
SUV tires generally need to be replaced every 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Tires should be replaced under the following circumstances: 1. Tire wear: Tires have tread wear indicators, which are slightly raised marks located at the bottom of the tread grooves, with a height of 1.6 mm (the legal minimum groove depth). If the tread rubber wears down to the same height as these raised indicators, the tires should be replaced immediately, as continued driving is no longer safe. Using worn tires on wet roads can lead to "hydroplaning," increasing the risk of losing control of the vehicle. This is because excessively worn treads cannot effectively channel water away from under the tire, potentially causing loss of control. 2. Tire damage: Hitting curbs, driving into potholes, or punctures from nails can severely damage tires. Damaged tires may be repairable, but only a professional repair shop can accurately determine whether a tire can be repaired or must be replaced. Generally, sidewall damage cannot be repaired, and for safety reasons, the tire must be replaced. 3. Tire aging: If the tread shows deformation or significant cracking, stop using the tire immediately and have it inspected by a professional repair shop to determine if it can continue to be used. 4. Tire bulging: Bulging is a major cause of tire blowouts, especially on highways, and is extremely dangerous. Tires with bulges should be replaced promptly.
I've been driving SUVs for over a decade, and I feel tire replacement depends on personal habits. Generally, you should consider getting new tires every 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. If you mostly drive in the city with good road conditions and slower wear, you might stretch it to 70,000 kilometers. But I recommend not exceeding 60,000 kilometers because SUVs are heavier, and tires wear out faster, especially during sudden braking or high-speed driving. Remember to regularly check the tread depth—replace them if it's below 1.6 mm, otherwise, the risk of hydroplaning in the rain increases. Another tip: rotate your tires every 10,000 kilometers to extend their lifespan. Summer heat also accelerates rubber aging, so don’t wait until cracks appear—safety first!
