What is the tire wear resistance index?
2 Answers
Tire wear resistance index refers to the wear resistance performance of the tire, which is the tire wear life grade, usually represented by numbers. The TREADWEAR+number marking on the side of the tire indicates the tire wear resistance index. The wear resistance coefficient is TREADWEAR+number, for example, TREADWEAR280 means the tire's wear resistance is 280% of the standard tire. It should also be noted that a higher tire wear resistance index is not always better, as its improvement often comes at the cost of losing other performance aspects, such as handling and comfort. Except for vehicles used for commercial purposes, a wear resistance index of around 200-350 is generally considered good. The wear resistance of a tire should not be judged solely based on its wear resistance index. It should be evaluated in combination with driving conditions and habits. When the tire wears down to the wear indicator mark, it should be replaced promptly. Generally, the service life of a tire is about 5 years, and the production date is also marked on the side of the tire. If the tire shows no obvious wear but has been in use for more than 5 years, replacement is still recommended because tires are rubber products that can age over time, develop cracks, and pose a risk of blowouts, endangering driving safety.
Having worked in the tire industry for many years, I'm often asked about the treadwear index. Simply put, it's a number printed on the tire sidewall indicating how long the tire may last, with 100 as the benchmark. For example, 200 means twice as durable. The typical range is from 100 to over 800. For urban driving, choosing a moderate value between 300 to 500 is ideal, balancing durability and safety. However, this index isn't absolute: rubber compound plays a significant role. Hard rubber may have higher wear resistance but slightly less grip, especially on wet roads where the wet traction rating matters. I advise car owners to consider road conditions when buying tires. While a higher index saves money, don't overlook overall balance. Regular tire pressure checks can further extend tire life.
