How Many Miles Do Tires Last?

In general, a new set of tires should get any driver down Duluth roads for approximately 50,000 miles. But there are plenty of factors that affect tire life. Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth covers what to consider when wondering, “How many miles should tires last?”, and some general tire care tips, below.

How Many Miles Do Tires Last? Factors That Affect Tire Life

Sometimes, the answer to the question, ”How many miles do tires last?” is very different from the average interval of 50,000 miles. This is because numerous factors are at play when considering your tires. Here are some of the big ones Lawrenceville drivers should consider:

• Tire Types: When you use a tire finder to select your new tires, you may choose to have all-season tires or high-performance tires. The latter can wear out faster than the former. Luckily, all tires come with a treadwear rating that can help you determine your tire’s life expectancy.
• Type of Drivetrain: Rear-wheel, front-wheel, and all-wheel drive all put different kinds of pressure on different tires. Pay attention to how your drivetrain is affecting your tires and make sure you follow the proper tire rotation pattern when you rotate your tires.
• Driving Habits: When you hit the brakes and the accelerator pedal quickly, you put stress on your tires. Prioritize smooth driving and your tires will last longer!
• Climate and Terrain: If it’s been a rainy spring in Suwanee or you like to go off-roading outside Johns Creek, your tires will wear out faster. Likewise, steep inclines affect tire life.

How Many Miles Should Tires Last? Tire Care Tips

It’s always advisable to be proactive regarding your vehicle’s tires. There are everyday steps you can take and regular inspections you can make to extend your tire life.

• Pressure: Under-inflated tires can cause lots of problems, so make sure to check them every now and then when you’re filling up the tank. Most new vehicles now come with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, which makes it even easier to monitor your tire pressure and adjust it when necessary.
• Checking for Tread Depth: This activity is simple, either with a measuring tool or the “Penny Test.” When your tread depth lowers to the point where you can see Abe Lincoln’s head when you insert a penny between the tread, you’re going to lose traction on Duluth roads.
• Rotation and Maintenance: Make sure to take your vehicle in for a tire rotation when it’s called for and find a trusted service center for regular vehicle maintenance – tire care is prudent!

Signs You Need New Tires

Sometimes, the answer to “How many miles should tires last?” and “How many miles do tires last?” is not the same. Depending on your driving habits, you might find yourself buying new tires long before or a while after the typical 50,000-mile point. Here are some common red flags when you need new tires:

• The tread wear indicator bars are showing
• Your tires fail the tread wear penny test
• There are visible cracking, blistering, or other signs of wear on the tire sidewalls
• The tire sidewalls appear to be bulging out or bubbling
• Your tire pressure light comes on frequently, even when you continually adjust the tire pressure
• Your car feels like it’s vibrating when you drive
• Your car is skidding out on wet roads
• The tires have patchy wear patterns
• Your tires are more than 10 years old. Even if you don’t drive a lot and rotate your tires regularly, the rubber can become damaged with age and exposure to the elements — especially if you live in an extreme climate.

Keep Your Tires in Shape with Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth

Since the answer to the question, “How many miles do tires last?” involves many factors, Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Duluth is happy to help Duluth-area drivers with all their tire care needs. Contact us with any additional car care questions and use our online tool to schedule service today!