Many drivers pay attention to fuel and engine oil but forget that tires are the only parts directly in contact with the road surface. Worn-out tires not only increase fuel consumption but also pose serious safety risks — especially when braking suddenly or driving on slippery roads.
So, when should you replace your car tires? Should you rely on mileage or the tire’s age?
1. Replace Tires Based on Mileage – A Practical View from Daily Use
Some experts and manufacturers generally recommend:
- The average lifespan of standard car tires ranges from 40,000 – 60,000 km.
However, this number can vary significantly because:
- Rough roads cause faster tread wear
- Heavy loads or frequent hard braking accelerate wear
- Aggressive driving such as sharp cornering leads to uneven wear
Therefore, if your vehicle frequently travels long distances, mileage is a clear indicator to consider tire replacement.
2. Replace Tires Based on Age – A Crucial Yet Often Overlooked Factor
Even when the car isn’t used often, tires still age due to rubber oxidation. UV rays, temperature changes, humidity, and chemicals from the road all contribute to cracks and hardening.
Recommended timeline:
- After 5 years: Annual tire inspection is necessary
- After 8–10 years: Replace the tire regardless of remaining tread depth
Meaning: time matters as much as mileage, especially for cars driven occasionally or short distances.
3. Mileage or Time – Which One Matters More?
In reality, you cannot rely on only one factor:
- If the car is driven frequently → prioritize mileage
- If the car is rarely used → prioritize time
More importantly, always check current tire conditions:
tread depth, cracks, bulges, grip performance, or unusual wear.
Mileage and time are like two sides of the same coin — both are essential to determine the safest and most cost-efficient time to replace tires.
4. Warning Signs Indicating You Should Replace Tires Immediately
Besides age and mileage, pay attention to these issues:
- Tread wear reaches the wear indicator bar (below 1.6 mm)
- Cracks or bulges on tire sidewalls
- Excessive vibration or instability at high speeds
- Tires patched too many times or patched in risky areas (shoulder or sidewall)
5. Conclusion: Make Smart Tire Replacement Decisions
There is no universal answer for whether to replace tires based on mileage or time. The key is to consider both factors, along with regular inspections.
DRC’s recommendations:
- Choose reputable tire brands with correct specifications for your vehicle
- Check tire condition before and after trips, maintain proper inflation
- Don’t wait until your tires “cry for help” — emergency failures always cost far more than timely maintenance
