How Often Should Hankook Tires Be Replaced?
2 Answers
Hankook tires typically need to be replaced every 3 years. Here is some information about Hankook tires: 1. Hazards of Aged Tires: When tires exceed this lifespan, they begin to age, primarily manifested as hardening and cracking. This is due to the free radicals generated by rubber aging, which then recombine, significantly increasing the cross-linking density. As a result, the hardness increases, physical performance declines, and cracks appear. 2. Tire Wear to Indicator Marks: Generally, tires have wear indicator marks located at the bottom of the tread grooves, with a height of 1.6 millimeters (the legal minimum groove depth). When the tread rubber blocks wear down to the same height as the raised markers, the tires should be replaced immediately.
As someone who has been driving for a long time, I know that tire replacement isn't just about the number of years but requires comprehensive consideration. Hankook tires typically have a recommended service life of 5 to 6 years, but this is just a baseline. The actual decision to replace should be based on the tire's condition. For example, if the tread wear is severe and the groove depth falls below 1.6mm, it's time to change them. Aging signs, such as cracks on the tire sidewalls—often caused by prolonged sun exposure or long-term parking—are also red flags. I personally inspect my tires every six months, using a coin to check the tread depth. Of course, driving habits play a big role too. If you frequently drive on rough roads, the wear will accelerate, and you might need to replace them before the 5-year mark. Safety comes first—worn tires affect handling, so when replacing, always consult a professional shop to confirm the specifications rather than just focusing on saving money. Overall, counting from the installation date, 5 years is a good reference point, but combining it with regular self-checks is the safest approach.