How Many Years Do Car Tires Normally Last?
2 Answers
Tires generally have a normal service life of about 3 years, with a typical mileage of 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers under normal road conditions. It is recommended to rotate tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers. For passenger car tires, the recommended tire pressure is usually 2.3 for the front wheels and 2.5 for the rear wheels. When the tread wear indicator (the raised bar at 1.6 mm depth in the tread groove near the triangular mark on the tire sidewall) becomes visible, the tire should be replaced immediately. Since tires are rubber products, they naturally age over time, becoming prone to cracking and experiencing significantly reduced heat dissipation. This leads to poorer driving comfort, slower acceleration, and a higher risk of losing control during braking due to insufficient grip, especially dangerous at high speeds. If the tire aging has affected the tire carcass, replacement is necessary regardless of the mileage or tread wear.
Based on my 20 years of driving experience, normal sedan tires can last about 3 to 5 years, depending on how you use them. I frequently drive on highways, covering around 20,000 kilometers annually, so I need to replace them every 4 years. The main reason is tire aging - the rubber cracks, especially when exposed to intense sunlight, which accelerates wear and makes them prone to slipping in rainy conditions, increasing accident risks. Check the tread depth quarterly; replace immediately if it's below 1.6mm to avoid sidewall cracks. Wheel balancing is also crucial - doing it every six months extends tire life, saves money, and improves driving stability. Remember, never compromise on safety. Park in shaded areas to reduce aging.