Should tires be replaced after running 120,000 kilometers?
3 Answers
Generally speaking, the mileage or time interval for tire replacement is more of an empirical guideline. The actual need for replacement should primarily be determined by several conditions, and tires require regular inspection. The reference conditions are as follows: 1. Wear limit indicator: Tires must be discontinued when worn to the wear limit indicator (i.e., when the tread depth is below 1.6 millimeters). 2. Aging: Tires that have aged. (Physical inspection required for confirmation) 3. Deformation: Tires with tread deformation or bead damage, tires damaged due to running under-inflated leading to sidewall crushing, or tires corroded by chemicals must not be used further. 4. Bulging: Bulging tires must not be continued to be used. 5. Safety impact: Any other damages that affect the safety of tire usage should also warrant discontinuation.
I've driven many cars myself, and my tires have run for 120,000 kilometers, which is already beyond the generally recommended mileage. Tires should typically be replaced around 100,000 kilometers; otherwise, the wear becomes severe. When the tread depth becomes shallow, the grip decreases, making it hard to brake in the rain, which is particularly dangerous. A friend of mine once had an old tire burst on the highway—fortunately, it was only a minor accident, but the repair cost over ten thousand yuan. I recommend checking the tread depth immediately: insert a coin into the groove, and if you can see the full head of the queen, it's time to replace the tires. Additionally, tire aging and cracking are common, especially if you've driven on mountain roads or in harsh weather conditions. Don't delay—safety comes first. New tires can also improve fuel efficiency. Checking them during annual maintenance can prevent a lot of trouble. Remember, cars are meant to be driven safely, and safety is far more important than saving money.
From a cost-saving perspective, it's time to change tires at 120,000 kilometers. New tires can last about 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers, making the cost relatively low—probably just around a thousand bucks for a set. However, if you don't replace them, the worn-out tires will increase fuel consumption, leading to long-term wasted money on gas. Plus, the potential repair costs from an accident far exceed the expense of new tires. Personally, I'm used to being meticulous with my budget, and replacing tires is more economical than major repairs. Additionally, worn tires affect vehicle performance, such as unstable steering, harder driving, and reduced comfort. Look at brands—choosing a mid-range option can give you longer durability. Regularly checking tire pressure and wear can extend their lifespan, but 120,000 kilometers is already the limit—don't wait until they fail. Safe driving comes first; saving small amounts might cost you big in the long run.
