Why Is It Important to Pay Attention to Tire Wear?

Car tires are one of the most important safety components of a vehicle. They ensure direct contact with the road and provide the stability of the vehicle. The proper condition of tires is essential for the optimal functioning of the vehicle and the driver's safety. However, tires wear out over time, and the extent of wear significantly affects the driving experience, braking distance, and tire grip.
Tire wear is a natural process, but excessive or uneven wear can indicate serious problems. In this article, we will show you the most common wear patterns, their causes, and how to prevent them.

Common Wear Patterns and Their Causes

1. Even Tire Wear

Even tire wear is the best-case scenario for a tire. It means that the tire's surface has no significant differences, and the wear is uniform across the entire surface. This type of wear usually occurs when the suspension is correctly aligned, and the tire pressure is as recommended.

What Can You Do?

Even wear indicates that everything is fine with the tires and the vehicle is being used correctly. However, you should regularly check the tire pressure to avoid overinflation or underinflation.

2. Uneven Wear – Wear on the Tire’s Edge

If one side of the tire wears out faster, it often indicates that the wheel alignment is incorrect. If the wheels are not parallel or have the wrong camber angle, one side of the tire will wear out more quickly. Common causes include misaligned wheels, but frequent cornering can also contribute to uneven wear.

What Can You Do?

If you notice uneven wear, have the suspension and alignment checked. Regular wheel alignment helps prevent uneven wear and protects the tires from premature wear.

3. Center-Worn Tires

Center wear is usually caused by overinflation. When the tire is too hard, the middle part makes the most contact with the road, wearing out faster. Fast driving and aggressive cornering can also contribute to this type of wear.

What Can You Do?

Check the tire pressure regularly and always keep it at the level recommended by the manufacturer. Overinflated tires not only wear out faster but also reduce vehicle stability, compromising driving safety.

4. Worn Tire Shoulders

When the tire shoulders are more worn, it indicates underinflation. In this case, the tire shoulders bear the main load and wear out faster. Overloading the vehicle or aggressive cornering can also lead to this issue.

What Can You Do?

If the tire shoulders are worn, check the tire pressure and ensure it is not too low. Maintaining the correct pressure not only extends the life of the tires but also improves the stability of the vehicle.

5. Sawtooth Wear

Sawtooth wear refers to asymmetric, rough tread wear that often indicates issues with the suspension or worn-out shock absorbers. The tread pattern features irregular ridges and dips resembling saw teeth. This type of wear is often accompanied by noticeable driving noise.

What Can You Do?

This problem usually points to suspension issues. Have the suspension checked and adjusted by a professional if necessary. Additionally, the condition of the shock absorbers should be inspected, as they significantly affect tire wear.

6. Scalloped Wear

Scalloped wear manifests as irregularly distributed, varying-sized wear spots on the tire surface. This wear can often be felt by hand, as the surface feels wavy, resembling a scallop shell. The primary cause is usually worn or improperly adjusted shock absorbers. Scalloped wear not only shortens the lifespan of the tires but also affects the car’s stability and handling.

What Can You Do?

If you notice scalloped wear, have the shock absorbers checked. If they are worn out, replace them to prevent further damage to the tires. If the wear is already severe, replacing the tires may also be necessary.

7. Diagonal Wear

Diagonal wear occurs when wear patterns run diagonally across the tire surface. This is often caused by incorrect wheel alignment, where the wheels are not parallel, leading to uneven contact with the road.

What Can You Do?

To avoid diagonal wear, have the wheel alignment checked and adjusted. Proper alignment ensures the tires make even contact with the road, resulting in more uniform wear.

8. Spotty Wear

Spotty wear means that certain areas of the tire surface wear out faster while others remain almost untouched. This can be caused by uneven tire pressure or a faulty braking system.

What Can You Do?

Regularly check the tire pressure and inspect the braking system. Locking brakes can also contribute to spotty wear.

How to Avoid Tire Wear Issues

Proper maintenance is key to preserving tire quality. Here are some practical tips:

• Check tire pressure regularly: Inspect the pressure at least once a month or before long trips, and adjust it to the manufacturer's recommended levels.
• Rotate the tires: Switch the front and rear tires regularly to balance wear (every 10,000 to 15,000 kilometers).
• Adjust your driving style: Avoid sudden accelerations, hard braking, and sharp turns.
• Perform wheel alignment: Have the suspension checked and aligned at least once a year or when you notice irregularities.

Conclusion: What You Should Know About Tire Wear

While it might not seem critical at first glance, ignoring tire wear can have serious consequences. Different types of wear often indicate other issues with the vehicle, such as defective shock absorbers. The condition of the tires reflects the "health" of your vehicle. Therefore, monitoring tire wear should be a regular part of your maintenance routine.
Ensure your tires are always in top condition. Combine regular inspections with seasonal tire changes, and your vehicle will be not only safer but also more cost-efficient!