The question “How long can a tire last?” The question “How long does a tire last?” is often followed by many others such as, “What causes a tires to wear?” When should tires be changed? We can help you clarify these questions.
HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS
Although there is no way to predict how long a tire will last, there are some things drivers can do to maximize their investment in tires and to avoid using unsafe tires. The average person drives between 12,000 and 15,000 miles per year. This means that an average all-season good-quality tire will last between three and five decades depending on how well it is maintained, driving style, and other conditions.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, a driver who has poor tires condition is three times more likely than to be in an accident. When it comes to tires’ health, safer is better. If you have any questions about tread wear or age, get your tires checked.
FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS
Many factors can affect how long a tire will last in service. How long a tire can last depends on how many miles you drive, what road conditions are like, and how well you maintain it.
Worn vs. Aged
Tires wear naturally as they are driven more. Tires with inadequate tread provide less traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Most drivers know that worn tires should be removed from service if they are still at least 2/32″.
Drivers are often unaware that tires that have been used minimally, such as those on collectible cars or recreational vehicles, can experience wear rather than wearing. This is due to insufficient driving. A tire with an aged tread has substantial tread, but the tire’s structural integrity is less strong because it must be driven to allow the chemicals in rubber to work properly.
Curbs, Potholes, and Other Hazards
Driving on unpaved roads or hitting curbs can result in potholes, broken pavements, railroad crossings that are poorly graded, and other road conditions such as potholes, broken pavements, unpaved roads, and so forth. Misalignment and suspension damage can lead to tire wear. These challenges can be caused by daily driving. Make sure you schedule an annual alignment, suspension and tire check.
Weather Conditions
Tires can wear faster in bad weather conditions such as rain, snow, or ice. They must work harder to maintain traction. Specially engineered tires can offer drivers extra traction and control, which is better for safety and treadwear.
Bridgestone has a variety of tires that will keep your car and you safe in any weather conditions. Bridgestone’s Blizzak tire is designed to withstand harsh winter conditions and provide durable traction on snowy or icy roads. The Dueler tire is also one of many that can offer secure grip on wet roads in areas where there is heavy rain.
Poor Driving Habits
Poor driving habits such as hard cornering, sudden acceleration and sudden braking can greatly increase tire stress, leading to rapid wear. Avoiding aggressive driving can significantly extend the life of your tires.
Neglected Maintenance
Regularly inspect your tires for damage and maintain proper air pressure. Also, make sure to align and rotate your tires. Tire life can be cut by half or more if you don’t maintain your tires properly.
KNOWING WHEN TO REPLACE TIRES
You may need to replace your tires if you see any of the following signs.
Low Tread Depth
Tire tread loss is a sign that a tire should be replaced. Low tread is something that a driver can see on their tire. The tire’s condition may indicate other issues.
Propounded inner or outer shoulder wear: Tires are misaligned
Edge of shoulder wear: Tires are either under-inflated or need to be rotated.
Tires may have excessive wear in the center or tires could have been subjected too hard to acceleration.
Cupped wear: The vehicle has suspension problems
Tires have tread wear indicators. However, if your tread seems low, you can do the penny testing on the tires.
Rough Drive
You may feel a vibration, especially if it’s just begun. It could also indicate that your tires are not in balance, worn properly, or have structural issues. This could affect your safety in some cases. Get your tires checked immediately by a professional.
DOT number
Another way to track when tires need to be replaced is to look for the U.S. Department of Transportation number (DOT) on the tire’s sidewall. It is easy to find: Look for the letters “DOT” followed with eleven or twelve numbers. Tires made after 2000 have the last four digits signify the week or year of manufacture. A tire with the number 3618 would have been manufactured in the 36th or 2018 week. If the tire has a 3-digit year-and-week code, it means that the tire was manufactured before 2000. This tire should be replaced because of age.
Bridgestone recommends that Firestone and Bridgestone brand tires be taken out of service after ten year regardless of the remaining tread depth. A qualified technician should inspect the tires for any damage like punctures, damage from impact, overloading or improper inflation.
HOW LONG A TIRE LASTS: EXTENDING TREAD LIFE
Tires are one of the biggest maintenance costs a vehicle owner will have to pay. They also play a critical role in driving safety and performance. It is important to properly care for tires. Good maintenance and good driving habits are key to keeping drivers safe and prolonging the life of tires.
Easy Does It
Tire life can be cut by up to half when tires are subjected both to hard braking and aggressive acceleration at a stoplight. Tire life will be increased if you avoid tailgating, which can reduce the need to apply hard brakes frequently. Tire wear is improved by pressing down on the accelerator when you pull away from a stop. Tire wear can be reduced by slowing down before turning sharply. Avoiding potholes and broken pavement will also help reduce stress. These steps will help you reduce your tire costs.
Regular Maintenance
Maintaining a vehicle’s tires in good condition will also extend their life. You can check your air pressure and tread depth yourself. It is important to have your tires balanced and aligned by a professional. Also, make sure that you have your tires rotated regularly. Your tires will last longer and perform at their best when you maintain them.