How often should tires be replaced on a new car?
3 Answers
New car tires should be replaced every 3 to 5 years or after driving 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The method to determine whether tires need replacement is to check their wear level. Tires should be promptly replaced when the tread depth falls below 1.6mm; when tires have been in use for over 5 years and the sidewalls are covered with cracks; or when a tire has been punctured more than 4 times or the puncture hole diameter exceeds 6mm. The functions of tires are: 1. To support the vehicle load; 2. To reduce and absorb vibrations and impact forces during driving, preventing severe vibrations from damaging car components; 3. To transmit driving force, braking force, and steering force, enabling vehicle operation.
Having driven for decades, I know tire replacement is crucial. For new cars, it's not just about a fixed timeline. New tires typically last 5-6 years or 60,000-80,000 kilometers, but this entirely depends on usage and maintenance. Safety comes first—tread depth shouldn't fall below 1.6mm. Regularly test it with a coin; if the tread is nearly worn, replace them immediately, especially since bald tires are prone to skidding in rain or snow. Personal experience: I pushed my first car's tires too far until the tread was almost gone, and nearly had an accident on a rainy day. For daily care, check tire pressure monthly—maintaining proper levels extends lifespan. Also, rotate tires every 10,000 km to prevent uneven wear. In short, don’t rigidly follow time or mileage; frequent observation and self-checks are key to safe driving.
When buying a new car, people often struggle with deciding the most cost-effective time to replace tires. I believe it should be calculated from an economic perspective. The original tires on a new car are of good quality and can generally last for about 5 years or 70,000 kilometers. However, if you have good driving habits, such as only driving on flat city roads, the tread wear will be slower, allowing the tires to last even longer and saving you money on premature replacements. The key is not to impulsively replace them—I've seen friends change tires every 2 years, which is a pure waste. On the other hand, if you frequently drive on highways or mountain roads, the tires will wear out faster, and it's better to replace them earlier to avoid higher replacement costs or the risk of blowouts. Additionally, pay attention to signs of tire aging: if stored for too long or exposed to the sun for over three years, the rubber can harden and crack. Even if the tires haven't been used much, they should be replaced to avoid the risk of ruptures. In short, base your decision on usage and tire condition, don’t blindly follow others' advice. Spending a little to ensure greater safety is the wise choice.
