Tire Wear: What It Is and How to Fight It

If you’ve ever glanced at your tyres and seen a bald patch or a weird pattern, you’ve dealt with tire wear. It’s not just an eyesore – worn tyres can hurt fuel economy, handling, and safety. The good news? Most wear problems are preventable with a few easy habits.

What Causes Tire Wear?

There are three big culprits:

1. Improper Inflation. Too low or too high pressure forces the tyre to flex unevenly. Low pressure makes the edges wear faster, while high pressure chews the centre.

2. Mis‑Alignment. If your wheels aren’t parallel, the tyres scrub against the road at odd angles. You’ll notice a feathered look on one side or a cupped pattern on the other.

3. Driving Style. Hard cornering, rapid acceleration, or frequent braking can heat the rubber and accelerate wear. Even everyday pothole hits add up over time.

Other factors include worn suspension parts, heavy loads, and the type of tyre you chose. A sport‑tread may look cool but can wear quicker if you’re not careful.

Tips to Keep Your Tires in Shape

Check Pressure Monthly. Use a reliable gauge and follow the vehicle maker’s recommended psi (usually on the driver’s door jamb). Adjust when the tyres are cold for the most accurate reading.

Get a Wheel Alignment Every 6‑12 Months. If you notice the steering pulling to one side, or after hitting a big curb, have a shop check the camber, caster, and toe. It’s a cheap fix that saves a lot of rubber.

Rotate Your Tyres Regularly. Swapping front and rear positions (or following a cross‑pattern for four‑way rotation) evens out wear. Most manufacturers suggest every 5 000–7 500 km.

Balance the Wheels. Unbalanced rims cause vibration and can create high‑spot wear. Balance when you install new tyres or feel a thump at highway speeds.

Drive Smoothly. Ease off the gas when you can, brake gently, and take corners with a gentle steer. You’ll not only save tyres but also improve fuel mileage.

Inspect for Damage. Look for cuts, punctures, or sidewall bulges each month. Small issues can become big safety hazards fast.

By staying on top of these basics, you’ll get the most miles out of each set of tyres – often 40 % longer than a neglected set.

Remember, tyres are the only part of your car that actually touches the road. Treat them right, and they’ll treat you to a smoother, safer ride.