What is the general lifespan of tires?
2 Answers
Tires typically last between 3 to 5 years. Methods to determine when tires need replacement include: 1. Signs of aging, such as small cracks in the tread grooves or sidewalls; 2. Tread depth reaching or falling below 1.6 millimeters; 3. Tire bulging. The functions of tires are: 1. Transmitting driving force, braking force, and steering force to enable vehicle operation; 2. Supporting vehicle load; 3. Reducing and absorbing vibrations and impacts during driving to prevent severe vibrations from damaging vehicle components. Tire maintenance methods include: 1. Regularly checking tire pressure; 2. Regularly inspecting tires for bulges, cracks, cuts, punctures, or abnormal wear; 3. Removing stones, metal pieces, and nails from tread grooves; 4. Performing wheel alignment or tire balancing.
Many people have asked me about tire lifespan. With nearly twenty years of driving experience, I've learned that rubber aging is the core issue. Officially, tires should be replaced every three to five years, but actual conditions depend on driving habits and road conditions. My family car, which frequently travels on highways, developed cracks in the tires after just three years, while a friend's city commuter car still had smooth tires after five years. Experienced drivers know that it's not just about exceeding 50,000 kilometers in mileage; prolonged parking under the sun can also accelerate brittleness. I remember once nearly losing control during a long-distance brake due to untimely tire replacement, costing me a fortune in towing and repairs. Regularly check tire pressure and tread depth—if you notice anything unusual, don't hesitate to replace them immediately. Safety always comes first, far more important than saving money.
