How Many Years Does a Car Tire Last?
2 Answers
There is no specific regulation on how many years a car tire can last. The main factors affecting the lifespan of a car tire are as follows. 1. Tire Pressure: Higher tire pressure reduces the contact area between the tire and the ground, causing localized wear in the middle of the tire and shortening its lifespan. Conversely, if the tire pressure is too low, the tire shoulders come into greater contact with the road, leading to severe wear on both sides of the shoulders and significantly reducing the tire's lifespan. 2. Tire Usage Rate: Tires are made of rubber material, which has a shelf life. Over time, rubber deteriorates more severely, naturally leading to a significant reduction in the tire's lifespan.
It's really hard to give an exact number for how long tires can last. I've changed my tires twice in four years of driving. Some friends changed theirs after five years, while others wore them out in just two. Actually, mileage is a more reliable indicator than years. I commute 50 kilometers daily, so my tires wear out faster. Tires on cars that frequently drive on highways or brake hard wear out even quicker. Rubber aging is another issue. Once, I saw my neighbor's tires covered in fine cracks on the sides. He said he hadn't changed them in six years, and while the tread was still deep, he didn't dare use them anymore. A mechanic taught me to check tread depth and sidewall cracks every six months, and to look for bulges after driving over bumps. If a tire has been patched more than three times or has sidewall damage, it's time to replace it immediately. With proper maintenance, tires can last five to six years in city driving, but even if they haven't been used much after six years, they should be thoroughly inspected.