Tire Wear
When it comes to changing the tires of your vehicle, there isn’t a single factor that can cause quicker tire wear. There are several possible issues, such as over-inflation, under-inflation, alignment, and driving style that can all contribute to the premature wearing of tires.
Over-Inflation
The most common cause of quick tire wear is over-inflation. This occurs when the tires are filled with more air than they were designed to hold. The weight of the vehicle is spread over a smaller surface area which creates a higher pressure in the center of the tire causing it to wear out faster in the middle. This type of wear is known as cupping and will appear as a series of crescents or arcs on the tires. To check for over-inflation, you can use a tire pressure gauge to measure the psi (pounds-per-square inch) of each tire. It is important to remember that the recommended psi for your vehicle may be different for the front and rear tires, so check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper psi.
Under-Inflation
On the other hand, if a tire is under-inflated, it will also cause a faster wear of the tire due to the excess weight being transmitted over a smaller surface area. As a result, the outer edges of the tire will wear out faster than the center. The tire pressure should be checked regularly, as driving even a short distance under-inflated can cause excess tire wear and can even damage the rim or sidewall of the tire.
Alignment
Another common cause of tire wear is improper wheel alignment. Improper alignment causes the tire to pull in one direction or the other and results in accelerated wear on the outer edges of the tires. An alignment check should be done every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or at least once a year to ensure proper alignment of the wheels.
Driving Style
Incorrect driving style can also be a factor that accelerates tire wear. Hard acceleration and cornering will cause excess pressure to be put on the tires, resulting in faster wear. Potholes, train tracks and curbing can also contribute to faster tire wear.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a number of issues that can contribute to quick tire wear including over-inflation, under-inflation, improper alignment and incorrect driving habits. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for tire pressure and wheel alignment, as well as be mindful of your driving habits to ensure the best performance and life of your tires.
