Tires are the only point of contact between the car and the road, making them a critical element for the safety and behavior of the car. However, many drivers unknowingly shorten their life, facing premature replacement. Now we explain what are the most common mistakes that cause the greatest damage to tires.
1. Long driving with insufficient pressure
This is perhaps the most insidious problem. Even if the tire pressure monitoring sensor (TPMS) shows a value only a few tenths of an atmosphere lower than recommended, this should not be ignored.
Insufficient pressure increases the deformation of the tire during movement and increases the load on all its internal components. Over time, the internal structure simply deteriorates, making the tire unfit for repair. This leads to increased rolling resistance and, of course, faster tread wear.
2. High-speed impact on sharp bumps
In the event of a sudden impact on a deep pothole with sharp edges, the tire takes the full brunt of the impact before the vehicle's suspension can even react effectively.
Such strong impacts can directly damage the tire carcass. The result is often a bulge or "bubble" on the sidewall, which means immediate unusability for further use, as the risk of a blowout is extremely high. Low-profile tires are particularly vulnerable to this type of injury.
3. Improper parking and contact with curbs
The sidewall of the tire is the thinnest and most vulnerable part. Although it is designed to withstand light contact with a smooth curb, one unfortunate touch with a sharp or convex curb can cause a deep cut.
In many cases, these side cuts are irreparable and require tire replacement, as repairing them compromises the structural integrity of the entire component.
4. Improper off-season storage
Once you remove your seasonal tires, how you store them is crucial. Tires require special conditions to maintain their elasticity and structural integrity.
Exposure to direct sunlight, contact with heat sources, or storage under a pile of heavy objects in the garage all damage the rubber compound. The damage often only becomes apparent after the tires are remounted – in the form of fine cracks in the sidewalls or vibrations while driving.
5. Lack of "breaking in" on new tires
To ensure a long service life, especially for new or winter tires, it is necessary to "break in" them properly.
During the first 200-300 km, sharp maneuvers should be avoided and the speed limit should be observed. With studded tires, a common mistake is to start off abruptly and skid (box) on dry pavement. The expert notes that these conditions subject the studs to increased stress, which can lead to their breakage or complete loss of grip.
The conclusion is clear: Extending the life of your tires depends less on luck and more on strict pressure maintenance and a sensible driving style.