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Taking care of your car is more than just filling it with gas and getting the oil changed. One of the most important parts of your car is something you might not think about until there's an issue—your tires! Knowing when to replace your tires can save you a lot of trouble on the road, improve safety, and keep your vehicle running smoothly. But how often do they actually need changing?
This guide will walk you through the key factors that determine how often you should change your tires, with tips to help you stay on top of tire maintenance without needing a mechanic every time.
Most tires are designed to last between 25,000 and 50,000 miles. That’s a pretty big range, right? The actual lifespan depends on several factors, like what kind of tires you have, how you drive, and where you drive. For example:
Performance tires (those often found on sports cars) wear out faster because they’re made for grip and speed, not long-term durability.
All-season tires (commonly found on everyday vehicles) are built to last longer, giving you better wear over time.
If you're not sure what kind of tires your car has, check your vehicle manual or the tire itself—there’s usually plenty of info right on the sidewall.
Quick Tip: Keep track of your tire’s mileage after installation. Some tires come with warranties for a certain number of miles, which can help you decide when it’s time for a new set.
The tread on your tires helps grip the road, especially in slippery conditions. Over time, this tread wears down, reducing your vehicle's ability to handle well, brake quickly, or avoid sliding on wet or icy roads. So, how do you check if the tread is too low?
The easiest method is the penny test:
Take a penny and place it into one of the grooves of your tire's tread.
Make sure Lincoln's head is facing down.
If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low, and it’s time for new tires.
Many tires also come with tread wear indicators (small rubber bars between the grooves). If these bars are level with the tread, it's definitely time for a replacement.
Tread Check
What It Means
Lincoln's head fully visible
Tread is too low; time for new tires.
Lincoln's head partially visible
Tread still has life left.
Tread wear indicator bar is level with tread
Time to replace your tires.
Quick Tip: Check your tread every few months, especially before long trips or during the change of seasons. It's a quick and easy way to keep tabs on your tires’ health.
Did you know that the climate you live in can impact how often you need to replace your tires? If you live in an area with extreme heat, your tires might wear down faster because hot pavement can break down rubber more quickly. On the other hand, if you live somewhere with harsh winters, you'll want to make sure your tires are up to handling icy and snowy conditions. In some cases, you might need to switch between summer tires and winter tires for better performance and safety.
If you drive in areas with:
High heat (like desert climates): Expect your tires to wear out faster.
Cold winters (with snow/ice): You’ll need winter tires for better grip, but be sure to switch them out in warmer months to prevent unnecessary wear.
Rainy conditions: Check your tread depth regularly because tires with low tread can make hydroplaning more likely.
Quick Tip: If you use winter tires, swap them out when the temperature starts to rise in the spring. Driving on winter tires in warm weather causes them to wear down quicker.
Red More: How Does Summer Weather Affect My Tires?
Sometimes, tires need replacing even before the tread wears out. Damage like cracks, punctures, or bulges can mean your tires aren’t safe anymore. Driving on damaged tires can lead to blowouts, which could cause accidents.
Common signs of tire damage include:
Cracks in the rubber
Bulges on the sidewalls
Visible punctures (like nails)
Uneven wear on one side
If you spot any of these signs, it’s better to replace the tire sooner rather than later. A blowout at high speeds can be dangerous for both you and other drivers on the road.
Even if your tires seem fine, they can still “age out.” Over time, the rubber in tires breaks down naturally, even if they haven’t been driven much. That’s why most experts recommend replacing tires every six to ten years, no matter how good the tread looks.
To find out how old your tires are, look for the DOT number on the tire’s sidewall. The last four digits tell you the week and year the tire was made. For example, a tire with “2319” was made in the 23rd week of 2019.
Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your tires, saving you money and keeping your car safe. Here are some quick maintenance tips:
Check tire pressure regularly: Low pressure can cause uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency.
Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles: This helps ensure they wear evenly.
Get regular alignments: Misaligned wheels can cause tires to wear unevenly or prematurely.
Quick Maintenance Checklist:
Monthly pressure checks
Tire rotation every oil change (roughly 6,000 miles)
Alignment check during regular maintenance
Keeping an eye on your tires is one of the easiest ways to stay safe on the road and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Between mileage, tread depth, weather conditions, and age, there are several factors that go into knowing when to replace your tires. Regular checks and maintenance can help extend their life and save you money in the long run.
If you’re not sure about the condition of your tires, stop by your local United Tire—they can give you a quick assessment and let you know if it’s time for a new set.
Got questions or want to schedule a tire check? Give us a call or schedule online, and we’ll make sure your ride is safe and smooth!
Read More Related Blogs:
Symptoms of Unbalanced Tires
How Long Do New Tires Last?
How Often Should Tires Be Balanced?
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