When To Replace Your Tyres
When to replace your tyres
All tyres will eventually need replacing.
How quickly that happens depends on various factors, such as your driving habits, where you live and how well you maintain your tyres.
When should I replace them?
You should inspect your tyres regularly – at least once a month. If you spot any of the issues below, your tyres need replacing:
Tread wear bars: most tyres have tread wear bars - bands of hard rubber that you can only see when your tread depth has gone beyond the limit for safe driving, which is generally 1.6mm.
Uneven wear patterns: you should also check your treads for uneven wear patterns that can indicate other problems with your tyres or your vehicle.
A bulge or a blister on the sidewall of a tyre. These can lead to tyre failure and are potentially dangerous.
A tyre has gone flat due to a blow out.
Lacerations, or other significant damage
Sidewall or tread punctures larger than 0.64cm. You cannot repair any punctures larger than this, and you should never repair tyres worn below 1.6mm.
Tips for buying replacement tyres
- Replace all four at once: it’s always a good idea to replace all four tyres at once. For optimum handling and control we recommend they are all the same type and size, unless otherwise specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
- Make sure they match: if you’re only buying two, make sure the new pair matches the tyres you’re keeping on your vehicle. You should also check that doing this is permitted by your local laws and the vehicle’s manufacturer.
- Put new tyres on the rear axle: for better traction and stability when you drive, if you only buy two new tyres they should go on the rear wheels.
- Mixing radial and non-radial tyres: if both must be fitted to the same vehicle, always put the radials on the rear axle. Never mix radials and non-radials on the same axle.
- Different speed ratings: we do not recommend fitting tyres with different speed ratings. If you do, they should be installed with like pairs on the same axle.
- Load-carrying capacity: make sure all replacement tyres have an equal or greater load-carrying capacity than that in the specifications provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
What happens to my old tyres?
In the U.S., Europe, and Japan, 90% of old or ‘end-of life’ tyres are recycled for energy recovery.
Warning
Vehicle handling may be significantly affected by a change in tyre size or type. Before replacing tyres, always consult the vehicle owner's manual and follow the vehicle manufacturer's replacement tyre recommendations.
