How many kilometers should tires normally run before replacement?
3 Answers
Tire mileage varies from person to person. If you drive gently without harsh braking, the tires can last about 50,000 kilometers. Replace tires when they reach the wear indicator bars. Tires with excessively shallow treads lose grip and become prone to skidding. Overused tires with aged and cracked rubber are more likely to blow out, so replacement is recommended. Precautions for tire replacement: When replacing tires, pay attention to the production date marked on the tire. The production date is usually indicated by a four-digit number, with the first two digits representing the week of production and the last two digits representing the year. Tire shelf life: Tires generally have a shelf life of 5 years. When replacing with new tires, ensure the production date is no older than 3 years. However, tires do not indicate an expiration date, only the production date.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I really want to emphasize that safety is the top priority when it comes to tires. Generally, tires should be replaced after running 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers, but this varies from person to person—those with aggressive driving habits, frequent hard braking, and rapid acceleration might wear them out by 40,000 kilometers; those who drive more on highways experience lighter wear. Don’t just focus on the mileage—checking the tread depth monthly is the most practical approach. Use a small tool or insert a one-yuan coin to measure; if the depth is less than 1.6mm, replace them immediately. Don’t overlook tire aging either—rubber becomes brittle after five years, and tires stored for too long shouldn’t be used. I’ve personally experienced the danger: shallow tread caused my car to skid on a rainy highway, nearly causing an accident—a harsh lesson. I recommend rotating tire positions regularly and inspecting them every 10,000 kilometers to extend their lifespan. Remember, tires are the only part of your car in contact with the ground. New tires ensure stable braking and reduce the risk of blowouts—your family’s safety is worth the investment.
I have a money-saving routine for car maintenance, focusing on the cost-effectiveness of tire lifespan. Replacing tires between 40,000 to 70,000 kilometers is the most economical—changing them too early wastes money, while delaying replacement beyond that risks issues. For example, the durable tires I use can last up to 80,000 kilometers, but those driven on rough city roads may wear out treads by 50,000 km. Proper maintenance saves money: check tire pressure monthly to maintain recommended levels, rotate front and rear tires every 8,000 km to ensure even wear and extend lifespan. The key to replacement timing is safety impact—shallow treads not only reduce braking efficiency but may also damage rims, leading to costly repairs. I recommend buying an affordable tread depth gauge online for self-checks—it costs just a few dollars. Brand matters too; opt for reputable ones like Michelin or Bridgestone—they’re pricier but last longer, saving money and hassle. Don’t overlook the tire’s production date—avoid 'new' tires stored in warehouses for over two years, and calculate lifespan from the purchase date instead.
