What Causes Tire Wear?
2 Answers
Tire wear can be attributed to the following reasons: 1. Wear on both shoulders of the tread: If the tread shoulders of the car tire are worn, it may be due to insufficient tire pressure or vehicle overload. Additionally, insufficient tire pressure or overload can increase fuel consumption and cause the tire temperature to rise excessively, leading to a blowout. 2. Central tread wear: The main cause of central tread wear is excessive tire pressure. High tire pressure reduces the contact area with the ground, resulting in central tread wear. Excessive tire pressure can also overstretch the cord layers, potentially causing blowouts on uneven roads. 3. Inner or outer tread wear: Inner or outer tread wear may be caused by improper front wheel toe-in or abnormal wheel camber. Frequent sharp turns during daily driving can also lead to inner or outer tread wear. 4. Wavy or scalloped tread wear: Wavy or scalloped tread wear is generally caused by poor wheel balance, resulting in steering wheel vibration during turns and uneven tire wear. It can also be due to inaccurate front wheel alignment. Therefore, it is essential to regularly inspect the car's tires to avoid malfunctions and unnecessary losses for the owner.
I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered tire wear issues several times. The most common cause is incorrect wheel alignment, where the wheel angles are off, leading to severe wear on the inner or outer edges of the tires while driving. Overinflated tires accelerate center wear, while underinflated tires cause faster wear on the edges. Additionally, aging suspension components, such as worn-out shock absorbers or loose bearings, can make the tires wobble and increase friction. Driving habits also play a role—frequent hard braking, rapid acceleration, or sharp steering in curves can all cause tires to wear out faster. I recommend checking tire pressure every quarter, getting an alignment adjustment annually, and maintaining smooth driving habits to extend tire life, save money, and ensure safety.
