What is the method to determine when to replace worn car tires?
2 Answers
To assess the degree of tire wear, the best method is to observe the thickness from the top to the bottom of the tread grooves. New tires typically have a thickness of around 8mm. Tire aging is significantly influenced by the duration of use and environmental conditions. The normal service life is approximately 6 years, but harsh environments can accelerate this timeline. Tire damage rarely occurs on the sidewalls. However, when bulges, deformations, or severe damage appear on the sidewalls, it becomes a highly hazardous situation.
To determine if tires need replacement, I'll share some practical tips from daily experience. First, check the tread depth: most tires have wear indicators—those small raised bars hidden in the tread grooves. When they become flush with the tread surface, it's a clear sign to replace them, as the depth falls below the 1.6mm legal limit. You can also use the coin test: insert a one-yuan coin into the tread; if the coin's design becomes visible, the tread is too shallow. Don't forget a visual sidewall inspection: look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. If one side wears faster, it may indicate misalignment, which shortens tire life and compromises braking safety. I recommend checking every 5,000 km while also verifying stable tire pressure. If you frequently drive on highways, wear accelerates—consider replacing tires before rainy seasons for added safety. Never delay replacements; aged tires increase hydroplaning risks on wet roads. Regular maintenance saves money by avoiding costly repairs or accidents.
