What Does Tire Cupping Mean for Cars?
1 Answers
Tire cupping refers to the abnormal and severe wear on the inner or outer side of one or more tires. Compared to other tires, a specific part of one tire wears out much faster. The primary cause of tire cupping is incorrect four-wheel alignment data, which requires a four-wheel alignment adjustment. Otherwise, it will affect the tire's lifespan and compromise safe driving. Causes of Tire Cupping: Inaccurate four-wheel alignment can lead to cupping when two wheels on the same side operate or when the front and rear wheels are misaligned. The vehicle's self-correction causes abnormal increases in friction and accelerated wear on a specific part of the tire. Incorrect toe adjustment can also result in cupping. The front wheels are slightly tilted inward at an angle similar to pigeon-toed feet, which is the optimal angle for stable high-speed driving. Every car has its own toe angle. If this angle is improperly adjusted, it can cause cupping. Mixing tires of different specifications or having significant differences in tire pressure can also lead to cupping. Ways to Avoid Tire Cupping: Adjust tire pressure and always maintain normal tire pressure. The recommended tire pressure value can be found in the manufacturer's guidelines, which may be located in the user manual or on the fuel tank cap door. Regularly perform wheel balancing tests on the tires. If imbalance is detected, balance lead weights should be added. Pay attention to tire maintenance and rotation. It is advisable to rotate the tires every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
