Every driver strives to ensure the safety and durability of their car's tires. However, many people make mistakes in the operation and maintenance of their vehicles, which often leads to premature tire replacement. Some of these reasons are obvious, while others remain less well-known. Here are the basic mistakes that lead to accelerated tire wear, and some expert tips to extend their life.
Incorrect air pressure
Incorrect tire pressure is one of the most common and easily preventable causes of accelerated wear.
Insufficient inflation (low pressure): Leads to excessive wear at the edges of the tread. The tire flattens more than necessary, which increases friction and generates more heat.
Overinflation (high pressure): Causes increased wear in the center of the tread. In this case, the tire bulges and the contact patch with the road becomes smaller, concentrating the load in the middle.
Tip: Always follow the recommended pressure specified by the car manufacturer (usually on a sticker in the driver's door or in the manual). Check the pressure at least once a month when the tires are cold.
Technical vehicle malfunctions
Problems in the vehicle's systems directly affect the even wear of the tires:
Suspension malfunctions: Problems with silent blocks, ball joints and shock absorbers lead to unstable wheel movement and uneven pressure on the tire.
Incorrect adjustment of the front or rear axle: Even a slight deviation in the wheel angles causes the tires to drag on the road instead of rolling, which leads to rapid wear on one side.
Poor wheel balance: Causes vibrations at higher speeds, which accelerates tread wear.
Tip: Regularly inspect the suspension and adjust the front axle after any major repairs or when you notice uneven wear.
Aggressive driving style
The way you drive has a direct and significant impact on the life of your tires:
Hard acceleration with wheel spin: The high torque literally "eats" the rubber on the tread.
Hard, sudden braking: Increases friction and puts a lot of stress on the tread, especially on cars without ABS.
Aggressive cornering: Any quick cornering with high lateral force increases wear on the tire edges.
Tip: Practice smooth starts, gradual braking, and moderate cornering. This will not only extend the life of the tires, but also reduce fuel consumption.
Inappropriate choice of tires for the season
Using tires that are not designed for the current conditions is a common mistake:
Using winter tires in summer: Winter tires are made of softer rubber. In high summer temperatures, they soften excessively, which leads to very rapid and uneven wear, in addition to reducing traction and increasing braking distances.
Tip: Change your tires on time according to the season. The investment in seasonal tires pays off many times over through greater safety and the extended life of the tires themselves.