How thick are the tires of a general car?
2 Answers
Generally, the tread thickness of a car tire is around 13mm, and the sidewall thickness is 5mm. Here are some tire maintenance tips: 1. Regularly check tire pressure: Tire pressure is a crucial factor affecting tire lifespan. It should not be too high or too low; always inflate according to the vehicle's recommended tire pressure. In summer, try to keep the tire pressure slightly lower. In winter, ensure the tire pressure is slightly higher than in summer due to the thermal expansion and contraction of tires. 2. Check for wear: Some vehicles may experience uneven tire wear. Regularly inspect the inner side of the tires for abnormal wear, focusing on whether the tread depth is consistent on both sides. 3. Perform wheel alignment periodically: If the vehicle pulls to one side or shows other abnormal steering behaviors, get the wheels aligned promptly to prevent further issues. Wheel alignment ensures even force distribution across all four tires, preventing excessive wear.
In my years of driving experience, the thickness of a car tire mainly refers to the tread thickness, which is the part of the tire surface that contacts the ground. New tires typically come with a thickness of 8-10 mm when they leave the factory, and I often use a small ruler to measure and confirm. However, as they are used, they gradually wear down; when the thickness drops below 1.6 mm, it becomes very dangerous—traction decreases, and the tire is more prone to slipping in rainy conditions. I’ve found that it’s best to check the tires every 10,000 kilometers by feeling the depth of the tread with a finger or using the coin test: insert a coin into the groove, and if the entire pattern is visible, it’s time to replace the tire. You should also consider the sidewall height, which is affected by the aspect ratio—for example, a 50% ratio is slightly shorter than a 55%. Regular maintenance can extend tire life, save fuel, and reduce costs. I learned this the hard way when I delayed replacing my tires and ended up in an accident. In short, thickness is crucial for safety—never neglect inspections and replacements.
