How Much Life Can I Expect to Get Out of My Tires? | Christian Brothers Automotive, West Wichita

If you are thinking about upgrading your car’s tires or have recently taken the plunge, you are probably curious how long a new set of tires will last.

Tires are one of the more expensive replacements you will have to do for your car, and regardless of your driving habits, you will have to do it regularly to stay safe. Fortunately, advancements in tire technology have come a long way, meaning car tires are lasting longer than ever before.

Can I Measure My Tire’s Lifespan in Years?

Many people wonder if there is a hard expiration date on tires, and the answer is both yes and no. Generally, experts recommend replacing your tires every six years at minimum, as the rubber can start to crack after this period.

Some high performance tires are designed to last up to 10 years, but it is important that you check with your manufacturer to make sure you are not overextending their lifespan.

Fortunately, it is easy to tell how old your tires are so you can make sure they are not past their expiration. Tires have a four-digit code from the Department of Transportation printed on the side so you can see exactly when your set was made. For example, if your tires have the code 0119 on them, that means that they were made in the first week of 2019.

How Do I Know When to Replace My Tires?

For most people, the tread on their tires will wear down long before they age out of service. Balding tires are a major roadway hazard, causing hydroplaning, extended stopping distance and more. If you are unsure if your tires’ tread looks acceptable, make sure to do the penny test once a month!

Insert a penny into your tire tread with Abraham Lincoln’s head facing downward—if the tread does not extend pass his head, it is time for a replacement.

Can I Replace My Tires Gradually?

Unfortunately, it is recommended that you replace your tires all together (including your spare) to avoid further issues down the road. Even the same make and model of tire can have slight variations in size, height and handling capabilities, which can cause serious damage to your car if you are driving on multiple sets.

Curious if it is time to replace your tires? We are happy to take a look! Contact us to schedule an appointment today so we can check yours out.