How Often Should New Car Tires Be Replaced?
2 Answers
New car tires generally need to be replaced every 4 to 5 years or after driving 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. Once this time frame or mileage is reached, the rubber in the tires begins to age, increasing the risk of damage or blowouts if they continue to be used. Factors that can shorten tire lifespan include: 1. Overinflation or underinflation—both can damage tires and affect vehicle performance; 2. Frequent acceleration and hard braking while driving, which accelerates tire wear—thus, it's advisable to slow down in complex road conditions; 3. Prolonged overloading or uneven loading of the vehicle, which places extra stress on the tires and speeds up tread wear.
My experience with changing tires started with my own car. New cars generally need tire replacement after 4 to 6 years, but this isn't fixed—it depends on your driving habits and road conditions. For example, since I commute daily in the city, my tires wear out slowly, but if you frequently drive on highways or rough rural roads, you might need to replace them in as little as 3 years. Tires have small raised wear indicators; if the tread depth falls below 1.6mm, it's time to change them, otherwise, they can be dangerously slippery in the rain. I recommend checking them every 10,000 kilometers or every six months—listen for unusual tire noise, and look for bulges or cracks. Also, tires age quickly; if left outdoors under prolonged sun exposure, the rubber can become brittle. Safety comes first—don’t wait for a blowout to act. Developing this habit can save you a lot of hassle.
