How Long Should Your Tyres Last?

The lifespan of a tyre varies based on individual drivers’ habits. Even so, there are certain milestones by which you’ll want to consider replacing your tyres.

The Average Tyre’s Lifespan

You can measure the lifespan of your tyres using two different spectrums: years and distance driven. While your individual tyres will begin to wear on their own schedule, there are industry-noted checkpoints by which you’ll at least want to start thinking about shopping for a new set.

How many years, then, do tyres last on average? If you don’t drive aggressively, maintain your tyres regularly and store them in proper conditions, you should be able to use a single set of tyres for up to ten years. After this point, it’s likely that your tyres will have worn down to the point where it’s no longer safe to use them.

 However, that also depends on your daily driving routine. Say that you have to drive a significant distance to get to and from work on a daily basis. This is where the distance metric comes into play. Most manufacturers note that their tyres will last you up to 50,000 kilometres before they’re no longer safe to use. 

Note, though, that the 50,000 kilometre count is on the extreme end of the use spectrum. You’ll often want to consider replacing your tyres before hitting this milestone if you want to stay safe on the road.

Signs to look for when your tyres need to be changed

Luckily, your tyres will let you know when the time’s come to invest in a replacement set. There are specific signs you can look out for that indicate excessive wear and tear. These include: 

• Tread wear – UK law states that your tyre tread must be, at a minimum, 1.6mm deep for your car tyres to be street legal. Your tyre tread helps you grip the road and protects you from aquaplaning and other roadway accidents. Tread that’s shallower than 1.6mm puts both you and other drivers at excessive risk.
• Tyre wear – In a similar vein, you’ll want to keep an eye out for tyre wear. Each of your tyres may wear individually, but unusual bumps, shallower walls, and punctures all indicate that one or the whole of the set may be running out of steam.
• Decreasing air pressure – It’s also more difficult for older or more worn tyres to retain their air pressure. As your tyres get older, or as you’re on the road more frequently, you’ll want to check your tyre pressure and make sure it’s holding steady. If you’re having to refill your tyres more than once a month, then it’s time to consider investing in a new set.
• Unsteadiness on the road – Finally, tyres that are nearing the end of their lifespan will disrupt your otherwise steady ride. When you notice an unusual amount of rattling on the road, or your car begins to make strange noises while travelling, you’ll need to visit your local garage for a tune-up.

Tyre maintenance for longer tyre life

While there comes a time when all tyres have to retire, there are steps you can take to make sure that your tyres last as long as they can. If you’re looking to make the most of your current set of tyres, you can:

• Check your tyres’ air pressure consistently – Tyres with too little or too much air pressure will do more than disrupt the flow of your drive. They’ll also cost you more at the petrol pump and run your car tyres down faster. When you constantly check and refill your tyres, you ensure that they’re not overworking while taking you from Point A to Point B.
• Avoid roadway obstacles that might damage your tyres – If you drive your car into potholes with any degree of frequency, then you’ll rapidly find yourself having to replace your tyres. Over-exposure to these types of roadway obstacles can not only warp your tyres, but it can stress your shocks and otherwise damage essential undercarriage elements.
• Go slow – Drivers across the UK have unique driving styles, which means you’ve probably developed a few habits over the years. If you want to preserve your tyres, you’ll want to do what you can to curb any aggressive driving ticks you’ve picked up. The more aggressively you drive, the faster your tyres will wear out. Comparatively, a slow and steady driver will be able to enjoy a strong set of tyres for years to come.
• Have your tyres professionally rotated – If you think your tyres may need some TLC, drop by your local garage. Rotating your tyres keeps your ride steady and balances out any uneven wear.

Tyre maintenance doesn’t have to be a challenge. Drive carefully and give your tyres the same attention and care that you’d give any other part of your car. The better you treat your tyres, the longer they’ll last.