How Many Years Must Car Tires Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Tire replacement cycles are generally 3-5 years or 40,000-60,000 kilometers, depending on the degree of tire wear. If the tires are well maintained, their service life can be extended. With good driving habits, tire replacement is typically required every 3-5 years or after 60,000-80,000 kilometers. However, under harsh road conditions such as frequent driving on gravel roads, constant traffic congestion, or aggressive braking and turning, the replacement interval will be shorter. The primary material of tires is rubber, which undergoes natural aging, manifesting as hardening and small cracks on the sidewalls. Natural aging usually occurs within 4-5 years. Tires used for 5 years should be promptly replaced to prevent the risk of blowouts. To maintain optimal performance and extend tire lifespan, regular maintenance is essential. First, check tire pressure periodically, as both overinflation and underinflation can cause abnormal wear, shorten tire life, increase fuel consumption, and raise the risk of blowouts at high speeds. Additionally, monitor tread wear to ensure adequate grip. According to national standards, the wear limit for radial tires used in passenger cars is 1.6mm. Proper wheel alignment, balancing, and rotation can significantly prolong tire life.
I've specifically looked up the manufacturer's information on this issue, and those who frequently drive on highways need to be extra cautious. Even if the tire tread is still deep, the rubber can age, and you should be alert if you notice fine cracks on the sidewalls. Generally, tires for city driving should be inspected and replaced every five years or so, but my neighbor, who drives to construction sites daily, wore his out in just three years. During my last maintenance visit, the technician taught me a trick: insert a one-yuan coin into the tread—if the top of the national emblem is visible, it means the wear exceeds the limit. Cars exposed to direct sunlight are particularly prone to cracking, while those parked in underground garages can last an extra year or two. Don’t forget to check the production date—the last four digits of the DOT code on the tire sidewall indicate the year and month. If the tires are over six years old, don’t hesitate to replace them.
