All tyres will eventually need to be replaced. Below are some signs to watch out for.
The tyre treads have worn below a safe driving level: All tyre treads will decrease over time as the rubber is worn down. Most tyres have wear indicators to help you recognize when the tread has worn down beyond a safe level. These are bars of hard rubber that become visible when your tread depth is less than a certain amount (the EU legal minimum is 1.6mm).
An uneven tread wear pattern – where some sections of tread are wearing away quicker than others – can be a sign of problems with your vehicle or your tyres. Check your tyres regularly for tread wear.
You can see damage to the tyre: Small cracks visible in the sidewall of the tyre – a phenomenon known as ‘crazing’ – are a sign that your tyres need replacing, as damage to this area could result in tyre failure. Sidewalls, treads and tyre shoulders should also be regularly inspected for cuts, bubbles and blisters as well as cracks. Tyres with damage of this type will need to be replaced, even if there is life left in the tread.
When replacing worn or damaged tyres, it is best practice to replace all four tyres at the same time. If you are only replacing two tyres, try to ensure they match the others already on the vehicle, and for optimal traction and stability have the new tyres mounted on the rear axle.
