How to Determine When Tires Need Replacement
2 Answers
Determining whether tires need replacement primarily depends on the wear indicators near the tread, the presence of bulges or cracks, and whether the tires have reached their service life. As one of the key components of a vehicle, tires should be replaced promptly in any of these situations to avoid the risk of blowouts. Specific methods to determine tire replacement: 1. Most tires on the market have wear indicators in the tread grooves. When the tread pattern wears down close to these indicators, it's time to replace the tires. 2. During daily driving, tires may hit curbs or be punctured by foreign objects, leading to bulges or cracks. In such cases, immediate replacement is necessary to prevent blowouts. 3. Even if the driving conditions are good, tires will age over time, showing signs like cracks, surface hardening, and loss of elasticity. Continuing to use them poses a blowout risk, so timely replacement is essential.
I've been driving for over a decade and know a thing or two about tire replacement. The most crucial factor is checking the tread depth. Simply insert a one-yuan coin into the tread—if the coin's edge doesn't cover it completely, meaning you can't see the full portrait line or the thickness is less than 1.6mm, it's time to replace the tires immediately. During routine checks, pay attention to any cracks, bulges, or cuts on the tire surface, as these minor issues can lead to blowouts if left unaddressed. Additionally, the sidewall of the tire has a production date code; tires older than 6-10 years age quickly, becoming stiff and losing elasticity. Safety comes first, so also be mindful of reduced grip on rainy days. Regular tire rotation ensures even wear and extends lifespan, but don't wait until you notice increased body vibration and noise while driving—that's already too late. In short, developing a habit of checking your tires monthly is the safest way to avoid potential hazards.
