How Often Should Tires Be Replaced Under Normal Use?
2 Answers
Tires should generally be replaced after 5 to 6 years of normal use. Upon reaching this timeframe, aging fine cracks may appear on the tires. Minor cracks are acceptable for continued use, but when the tread wears down to a significantly low level, replacement should be considered. Severe wear can compromise driving safety. The functions of tires include: 1. Supporting the entire weight of the vehicle and bearing its load; 2. Transmitting traction and braking torque to ensure adhesion between the wheels and the road surface; 3. Absorbing and mitigating vibrations and impacts during driving, protecting vehicle components from excessive vibration and premature damage; 4. Enhancing high-speed performance, reducing driving noise, and ensuring safety, handling stability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
I always emphasize that tires are a matter of life and death, not just about age or mileage. Regular inspection of tread depth is crucial: insert a one-yuan coin into the tire groove—if the Great Wall line on the coin is fully visible, the tire is still safe; if it's below 1.6mm, replace it immediately. After five years, tires naturally age, especially for cars parked in the sun frequently, leading to increased surface cracks and reduced grip. This is related to driving habits—rapid acceleration and hard braking accelerate wear. It's recommended to self-inspect every season and address any issues promptly at a professional repair shop. Saving money is not worth risking your life—a tire blowout at high speed is extremely dangerous. To extend tire life: perform a tire rotation every 10,000 kilometers to ensure even wear.
