How to Know When to Replace Your Tyres

Discover the essential signs that indicate it’s time to replace your tyres. Learn how to measure tyre tread depth, understand wear patterns, and choose the right tyres for your vehicle.

”When should I replace my car tyres?” is a common question drivers ask online. But do you really know the signs that indicate it's time for new tyres?

Let’s explore the key indicators that show when your tyres need replacing. We’ll cover everything you need to know about tyre tread wear, what causes it, and how to extend the lifespan of your tyres.

Monitor Tyre Tread Wear

The question of when to replace your car tyres can be answered with a simple, logical approach. Typically, new tyres come with a tread depth of 10/32” (though some may have more). Tyres are generally considered worn out when their tread depth reaches 2/32”, which is the minimum legal limit in many countries.

Reaching this 2/32” wear bar is crucial—tyres below this depth are unsafe, as they can lead to uneven and premature wear patterns, reducing their overall lifespan.

Ideally, the entire tyre surface should wear evenly. However, external factors can cause uneven tread wear, such as patchy, cupped, or one-sided wear. These wear patterns can indicate various issues with your tyres or vehicle. When your tyres reach the wear bars or show signs of uneven wear, it's time for a replacement. Such tyres no longer provide the necessary traction, especially on different terrains.

Understanding New Tyre Tread Depth

The standard tread depth on new passenger car tyres is usually 10/32”, but this can vary depending on the tyre type. For example, off-road tyres might start with a tread depth of up to 16/32”. Regardless of the type, tyres should be replaced when their tread reaches 2/32” to ensure safety.

Interestingly, commercial tyres can have an even deeper tread. However, these should typically be replaced once the tread reaches 4/32” to maintain optimal performance. 

Will Your Tyres Pass the Penny Test?

Another common question is, “When do I need new tyres?” Knowing how long your tyres are good for is vital, and measuring tread depth is a key part of this.

While a tyre tread gauge provides the most accurate reading, you can also use the penny test as a simple alternative. This test involves placing a penny into the tread groove with Lincoln’s head facing down. If the tread covers Lincoln’s head, your tyres are still in good condition. If you can see the entire head, it’s time to replace your tyres. 

Tyre Replacement Indicators

In addition to the penny test, some tyre brands incorporate wear indicators directly into the tread pattern. These indicators, which may be numbers, symbols, or phrases, gradually wear away as the tyre’s tread wears down.

For example, General Tyre features a "Replacement Tyre Monitor" on some models. Initially, the tread shows the phrase “Replacement Tyre Monitor,” but as the tread wears down, only “Replace Tyre” remains visible, signaling that it’s time for new tyres.

Why Tyre Age Matters

Another factor in deciding when to change your tyres is their age. Tyre manufacturers typically recommend replacing tyres every six years, which is based on the tyre’s DOT (Department of Transportation) number found on the sidewall.

The DOT number is a series of digits, but you only need to focus on the last four, which indicate the week and year the tyre was manufactured. For example, “2121” would mean the tyre was made in the 21st week of 2021.

The Impact of Worn-Out Tyres on Driving Safety

Worn tyres can significantly affect your vehicle's performance. As tyres wear down, you may notice a decline in traction, fuel efficiency, and overall handling. Here are a few signs that indicate it’s time for a tyre replacement:

Loss of Traction:

 All-season, winter, and summer tyres will lose grip as their tread wears down. This is particularly noticeable in wet conditions, where worn tyres are more prone to hydroplaning. If your vehicle begins to skid on wet roads, it’s time to replace your tyres.

Sluggish Steering and Poor Braking:

 As tyre tread wears down, so does its ability to respond to steering inputs and brake effectively. If you notice a decline in your vehicle’s handling or longer braking distances, it’s time for new tyres.

Increased Puncture Risk:

 Worn tyres are more susceptible to damage from road hazards like potholes, nails, and glass. These can lead to punctures or slow leaks, which can be dangerous if not addressed promptly.

Increased Road Vibrations:

Excessive road vibrations can be a sign that your tyres are nearing the end of their lifespan. If vibrations persist even after checking for vehicle-related issues, it’s time to replace your tyres.

Factors That Accelerate Tyre Tread Wear

While tyres have a general lifespan, certain factors can accelerate tread wear. Some of these are preventable with proper maintenance, while others are unavoidable:

Road Hazards:

Hazards such as potholes, obstacles, and curb damage can lead to sudden tyre damage. While these incidents are often unavoidable, they can be mitigated by careful driving. 

Vehicle Issues:

Neglecting tyre rotations, balancing, and alignment can lead to uneven tread wear, shortening the tyre’s lifespan. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues.

Driving Style:

Aggressive driving habits, such as hard braking, sharp turns, and speeding, can accelerate tyre wear. Adopting a smoother driving style can extend the life of your tyres.

Tyre Pressure:

Incorrect tyre pressure can also lead to uneven wear. Overinflated tyres wear more in the center, while underinflated tyres wear on the shoulders. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tyre pressure can prevent this.

Using the Wrong Tyres:

 Using tyres outside their intended conditions, such as winter tyres in summer or touring tyres off-road, will accelerate wear. Always choose tyres suited to your driving environment. 

Visible Signs of a Worn Tyre

How often you need to replace your tyres depends on their condition. Regular visual inspections can help you identify when your tyres are no longer safe. Here are some signs to watch for:

Uneven Tread Wear:

Uneven wear is one of the most common reasons for tyre replacement. Check your tread depth regularly—anything below 2/32” indicates it’s time for new tyres.

Tyre Bubbles, Bulges, and Damage:

Visible signs of damage, such as sidewall bubbles or bulges, indicate internal failure. Cuts and cracks can also reduce a tyre's lifespan, making replacement necessary.

Road Vibrations:

If you feel excessive vibrations while driving, it could mean your tyres are worn out and need replacing.

Vehicle Issues:

Problems with tyre alignment, rotations, and balancing can cause uneven wear, leading to a shorter tyre lifespan. Ensure your tyres are properly maintained to avoid these issues.

How to Choose New Tyres for Your Vehicle

When selecting new tyres, consider the following factors:

Usage:

Where will you be driving? What performance do you need from your tyres? You’ll need to choose between summer, winter, and all-season tyres, as well as consider the terrain—whether you need touring, highway, off-road, or performance tyres.

Tyre Size: 

Ensure the tyre size matches your vehicle’s requirements. This is crucial for optimal performance.

DOT Code:

Check the tyre’s DOT code when purchasing. While an older code doesn’t necessarily mean the tyre is bad, newer tyres generally have a longer lifespan.

Often, budget plays a significant role in choosing tyres. It’s possible to find quality tyres at affordable prices by shopping around.

Should You Replace All Four Tyres at Once?

While it’s not always necessary to replace all four tyres at once, it’s generally recommended. Tyres on the same vehicle wear at similar rates, so replacing them together ensures consistent performance.

If you opt to replace only two tyres, place the new ones on the rear axle for better traction and performance. Ideally, try to keep all four tyres from the same brand for the best results.

Tyre Replacement Time

The time it takes to replace a tyre varies, but it typically ranges from 5 to 15 minutes per tyre. Replacing a full set should take about an hour at a professional tyre shop. DIY tyre changes can take longer, especially without the proper tools.

How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Tyre?

The cost of replacing tyres varies depending on the shop and the type of tyres. Expect to pay between R250 and R1000 per tyre for mounting and balancing, in addition to the cost of the tyres themselves.

Where to Replace Your Tyres

Looking for a reliable place to replace your tyres? Visit Malas! We offer a wide selection of high-quality tyres for various vehicle types. Whether you need budget-friendly options or top-tier brands, we’ve got you covered with the best prices and convenient shipping to your door.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

When Do You Need New Tyres?

You should replace your tyres when the tread depth reaches 2/32”. Proper maintenance can extend their lifespan, but the legal limit is when the tread reaches the wear bars.

How Often Do You Need New Tyres?

Typically, tyres should be replaced every six years. However, they may need replacing sooner if the tread depth falls below 2/32” or if the rubber becomes rigid.

Do I Need to Replace TPMS When Replacing Tyres?

While it’s not necessary to replace the TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) when changing tyres, it’s convenient to do so since the tyres need to be removed from the wheels.

What Is the Average Tyre Mileage?

The average tyre mileage is about 80,000 to 100,000 kilometres, but this can vary depending on factors like tyre quality, performance, season, and usage frequency.