A set of tires is one of the bigger running costs of a car, and most sets wear out sooner than they should. A few simple habits stretch their life a long way.
Keep the pressure right
This is the single most important thing. Low pressure wears the edges and builds heat, while high pressure wears the centre. Check monthly and match the door sticker figure. Correct pressure also improves fuel economy.
Rotate them regularly
Front and rear tires wear at different rates. Rotating them every 5,000 to 8,000 miles evens out the wear so the whole set lasts longer and wears down together.
Get the alignment checked
A car that is out of alignment scrubs the tread off one edge. If you notice uneven wear or the car pulling to one side, an alignment saves the tires.
Drive a little gentler
Hard cornering, fast starts and heavy braking grind away tread. Smooth driving is easy on tires, brakes and fuel all at once.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know when tires are worn out?
When the tread reaches the wear bars, or about 2 to 3 millimetres, it is time. A shorter tread means poor grip in the wet.
Does rotating tires really help?
Yes. It is one of the cheapest ways to get more miles from a set.
When it is time to replace, our tire guides help you compare.
