When Should Car Tires Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Car tires should generally be replaced after approximately 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The replacement of car tires depends on factors such as tire quality, driving conditions, driving style, and the specific condition of the tires. Below are some key considerations for tire replacement: 1. Tire Quality, Driving Conditions, and Driving Style: The mileage for tire replacement is typically determined by various factors including tire quality, driving conditions, and driving style. Generally, replacing tires at around 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers is optimal. However, mileage alone should not be the sole criterion; the service life of the tires should also be considered for a comprehensive judgment. 2. Specific Condition of the Tires: In practical use, the decision to replace tires should primarily be based on their specific condition. The tread pattern on the tire surface is the most intuitive indicator. When the tread depth wears down to less than 1.6 millimeters, the tires need to be replaced.
Changing tires is a crucial matter. I usually drive to pick up my kids from school and always pay attention to tire inspections. Generally, I check the tread depth—the simplest method is to insert a coin into the tread groove. If the tread wears down to the edge of the coin, it's time to replace them, with the standard being below 1.6 mm. There are also wear indicators; each tire has small blocks that, when worn flat, indicate the tire is no longer safe. Don’t delay too long in terms of time either—tires start to age after five or six years of use, with surface cracks, hardened rubber, and poor grip. Wear can accelerate significantly during summer heat or winter freezing conditions. If you notice bulges or punctures, even just one, don’t risk driving—a high-speed blowout is extremely dangerous, especially on wet roads where the accident rate doubles. I’ve made it a habit to check them every month—safety first, don’t wait for an accident to regret it.
I've seen plenty of cases where customers make the mistake of waiting too long to change tires during car maintenance. When treads are shallow, skidding becomes easier, and rainy days see more accidents. Tread depth should be at least 1.6 millimeters, otherwise braking power drops by half. Another issue is uneven wear—if one side wears out faster, it might indicate an alignment problem that needs checking. Aging is also critical; check the production date on the sidewall (e.g., the last four digits after DOT). If it's over five years old, consider replacing it, as rubber cracking is a common issue. Mileage plays a big role too—normal driving leads to noticeable wear after 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. I've even seen bulging tires burst on highways, deforming the rims and endangering everyone. It's best to get a professional inspection every six months—don't skimp on costs. A new tire is always cheaper than car repairs.
