Tyres profoundly affect how a car moves, turns, and stops, making them essential for safety and performance. Over time, they wear down due to usage, road conditions, and environmental factors, which can reduce grip and braking efficiency.
Knowing when to change the tyres can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. By identifying key warning signs like tread wear, uneven patterns, increased road noise, or vibrations, drivers can ensure their tyres remain in optimal condition for a smooth and safe driving experience.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Tyres
Tyres play a critical role in vehicle safety and performance. Over time, they wear out, affecting grip, braking, and overall handling. Recognising the warning signs can help you replace tyres before they become a hazard on the road.
Tyre Age
Tyres degrade naturally, even if they are not frequently used. It is generally recommended to replace them after five years of service and no longer than 10 years. You can check the tyre’s production date on the sidewall— the last two digits indicate the year it was made. For example, “3112” means the tyre was produced in the 31st week of 2012.
Advancements in tyre technology continue to enhance safety and performance across various driving conditions. For example, Yokohama Tire Corporation (YTC) will supply ADVAN A005 and A006 tyres as the control tyres for the new Mustang Cup series in the U.S., starting this April.
High-performance tyres like the ADVAN series, trusted in professional motorsports, offer exceptional grip and durability. While designed for racing, these innovations often improve everyday road tyres, enhancing safety and handling for regular drivers.
Tyre Wear
As tyres wear down, their tread depth decreases, reducing traction and increasing stopping distances. Tread Wear Indicators (TWI)—small bars inside the grooves—help determine when a tyre needs replacement. If the tread is level with the TWI (1.6mm), it’s time for new tyres. Driving with worn-out tread compromises road grip, especially in wet conditions.
Uneven Tyre Wear
Uneven tyre wear can result from poor maintenance or external damage. It is often caused by under-inflation, over-inflation, skipping wheel alignments, or improper vehicle modifications. This weakens tyre strength and increases the risk of losing control, particularly on wet or slippery roads.
Increased Rumbling Noise
Excessive rumbling or tyre noise is another indicator of wear. As the tread wears down, more of the tyre’s surface touches the road, generating louder noise while driving. If tyre noise becomes noticeably louder, it may be time for a replacement.
Increased Vibrations
Unusual vibrations while driving could signal tyre damage. If the vibrations change with speed, they may be caused by bubbles or blisters from internal damage, such as hitting a curb or pothole. A tyre with a bubble or blister must be replaced immediately, as it can lead to sudden air loss and an unexpected blowout.
If you notice any of these signs, consult a tyre specialist to assess whether a replacement is needed.
How to Check Tyre Tread Depth
Tyre tread depth is essential for maintaining grip, braking efficiency, and overall driving safety. As tyres wear down over time, their ability to handle wet and slippery roads decreases. Regularly checking your tyre tread depth ensures they remain safe and effective by:
Use a Tread Depth Gauge
A tread depth gauge is a precise tool designed to measure tyre tread depth and is available at local workshops and accessory stores. To use it, insert the gauge into the tyre grooves and check the reading. If the tread depth is below 1.6mm, the tyre must be replaced.
Check the Tread Wear Indicator Bars
Tyres come with built-in Tread Wear Indicator (TWI) bars, which are small raised sections inside the grooves. These indicators show the minimum tread depth. If the tread is level with the TWI bars at the 1.6mm mark, it’s time to replace your tyres.
Seek Professional Advice
For a thorough inspection, a tyre specialist can assess both the tread depth and the overall condition of the tyre sidewalls. If you’re unsure whether your tyres are still roadworthy, getting expert advice is the safest option.
Preventing Premature Tyre Wear
Proper tyre care helps extend their lifespan and ensures a safer driving experience. Here are key factors that contribute to premature tyre wear:
Incorrect Tyre Pressure
Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and increasing fuel consumption. Over-inflated tyres wear excessively in the centre of the tread, reducing grip and stability. Always adjust tyre pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Driving Over Obstacles
Hitting kerbs, potholes, or speed bumps at high speeds can cause sudden shocks that accelerate tyre wear. Repeated impacts may also throw the vehicle’s alignment off balance, leading to irregular tread wear and requiring premature replacement.
Extreme Temperatures
Heat and cold affect rubber aging. Exposure to direct sunlight or freezing conditions can weaken tyres over time. Store tyres in a cool, shaded place to maintain their condition.
Proper tyre selection is key to longevity and performance. Tyre makers refine their designs through motorsports, where extreme conditions test durability. For example, Yokohama Rubber’s partnership with Haupt Racing Team (HRT) for the 2025 Nürburgring 24-Hour Race helps develop high-performance tyres, with innovations that enhance everyday road tyres.
Final Check: Are Your Tyres Safe?
Regular tyre maintenance keeps your vehicle safe and efficient. Check for tread wear, uneven patterns, vibrations, and age-related degradation to ensure you’re driving on tyres that provide optimal performance. If in doubt, consult a tyre specialist for expert advice.
FAQ
1. Can driving habits impact tyre wear?
Yes, aggressive driving habits such as hard braking, rapid acceleration, and sharp turns can cause tyres to wear out faster. Maintaining a smooth driving style can help extend tyre life.
2. How do I know if my tyres are wearing out unevenly?
Signs of uneven tyre wear include vibrations while driving, excessive noise, and visual irregularities in the tread. Regularly inspect your tyres or have a professional check your vehicle’s alignment.
3. What is a TPMS?
A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will alert when tyre pressure goes below a pre-set limit, which could create unsafe driving conditions. If the TPMS light is illuminated, it means that the system has detected that tyres could be underinflated or leaking air, and not because they’re due for replacement.
