How often should car tires be replaced under normal circumstances?
2 Answers
There is no fixed time for how often car tires should be replaced, as it depends on the condition of the tires. Under normal use, tires generally need to be replaced after 4 to 5 years or 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. By this time, the rubber of the tires has begun to age, and continuing to use them increases the risk of damage or blowouts. Tires are often used under complex and demanding conditions, enduring various deformations, loads, forces, and extreme temperatures while driving. Therefore, they must possess high load-bearing capacity, traction performance, and cushioning performance, as well as high wear resistance, flexibility, and low rolling resistance and heat generation.
Having driven for many years, I know tire replacement isn't about fixed time intervals but monitoring tread depth and safety. For normal urban commuting of 30-40km daily, tires may reach dangerous tread levels after 4-5 years. I use the coin test: insert a dime into the tread - if Lincoln's full head is visible, it's time to replace. Aging matters too; after 5-6 years rubber cracks/hardens, reducing grip and increasing wet braking distance. Highway driving or rough roads accelerate wear - check tread every 6 months and rotate tires regularly to extend lifespan. Safety first - don't wait for a blowout.
