How Long Do Tyres Last? Essential Tips for Longevity and Safety

Tyres are one of the most critical components of your vehicle, directly affecting safety, fuel efficiency, and driving performance. But how long do tyres last before they need replacing? The answer depends on various factors, including driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance practices. In this guide, we’ll explore the lifespan of tyres, signs that indicate they need replacing, and how to maximise their longevity.

Quick Answer: Tyres typically last 40,000 to 80,000 km or five to six years, but factors like driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance affect longevity. Check tread depth, cracks, and wear regularly. Replace tyres if they show signs of ageing, damage, or poor performance.

How Long Should Tyres Last?

On average, you can expect tyres to last between 40,000 to 80,000 km or around five to six years. However, tyre longevity varies depending on several factors:

Driving habits – Aggressive driving, frequent braking, and high-speed travel wear tyres faster.
Road conditions – Rough or unpaved roads, potholes, and extreme temperatures affect tyre life.
Tyre type and quality – Premium tyres with high-quality rubber compounds last longer than budget alternatives.
Tyre maintenance – Regular rotation, balancing, and correct inflation extend a tyre’s lifespan.
Weather exposure – Prolonged sun exposure and extreme cold can degrade rubber, leading to cracks.

Signs Your Tyres Need Replacing

Even if your tyres haven’t reached their mileage limit, they may still need replacing due to wear and tear. Look out for these signs:

1. Low Tread Depth

Tread depth is crucial for grip and safe braking, especially in wet conditions. The legal minimum tread depth in Australia is 1.5mm, but most experts recommend replacing tyres when tread falls below 3mm. You can check tread depth using a tread depth gauge or the built-in tread wear indicators on the tyre.

2. Cracks and Dry Rot

Over time, tyres can develop cracks in the rubber, especially if exposed to harsh sunlight and temperature fluctuations. This is known as dry rot, and it weakens the tyre structure, increasing the risk of blowouts.

3. Uneven or Excessive Wear

If some areas of the tyre are more worn than others, it could indicate improper alignment, incorrect inflation, or suspension issues. Uneven wear can compromise handling and safety.

4. Bulges or Blisters

Bulges or blisters on the sidewall indicate internal damage, often caused by hitting potholes or kerbs. These weak spots can lead to sudden tyre failure and should be addressed immediately.

5. Frequent Loss of Pressure

If a tyre constantly loses air despite no visible punctures, it may have an internal defect or weakened seal.

6. Ageing Tyres

Even if old tyres look fine and have sufficient tread, they should generally be replaced every 6 to 10 years, as rubber compounds degrade over time. Check the manufacture date on the tyre sidewall—the four-digit code represents the week and year of production (e.g., “2519” means the tyre was made in the 25th week of 2019).

How to Extend the Life of Your Tyres

Proper tyre care can help you get the most out of your investment. Follow these maintenance tips to extend tyre life:

1. Keep Tyres Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tyres create excess rolling resistance, wearing out faster and reducing fuel efficiency. Over-inflated tyres, on the other hand, cause uneven wear and a harsher ride. Check tyre pressure regularly and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended air pressure level.

2. Rotate Your Tyres Regularly

Rotating your tyres every 10,000 km ensures even wear across all four tyres. Front tyres tend to wear out faster due to steering and braking forces, so rotation helps extend their lifespan.

3. Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment

Misaligned wheels cause uneven tread wear and reduce handling performance. If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel vibrates, it may be time for a wheel alignment.

4. Balance Your Tyres

Unbalanced tyres create vibrations that can lead to uneven wear and suspension issues. Have your tyres balanced whenever they are rotated or replaced.

5. Avoid Harsh Driving Conditions

Fast acceleration, hard or sudden braking, and aggressive cornering accelerate tyre wear. Drive smoothly and avoid rough roads whenever possible.

6. Store Spare Tyres Properly

If you have seasonal tyres or a spare set, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and chemicals to prevent rubber deterioration.

Should You Replace All Your Car Tyres at Once?

While it’s best to replace all four tyres simultaneously for consistent performance, it’s not always necessary. If only one or two tyres are worn out, you can replace just those, but they should match the remaining tyres in brand, tread pattern, and size. If replacing only two tyres, the new ones should be installed on the rear axle for better stability and grip.

Can You Change Tyres Yourself?

Changing a tyre yourself is possible, but mounting new tyres onto rims and balancing them requires professional equipment. If you’re dealing with a flat tyre, you can replace it with a spare using a jack and wrench, but for full tyre replacements, visiting a professional tyre shop is recommended. They ensure proper fitting, alignment, and balancing for safety and longevity.

When to See a Professional

If you’re unsure whether your tyres need replacing, consult a tyre specialist. A professional can assess wear patterns, measure tread depth, and check for hidden damage. Additionally, if you experience vibrations, pulling, or a rough ride, have your tyres and suspension inspected for potential issues.

Find a Trusted Mechanic or Tyre Shop Near You

Not sure where to go for new tyres or to have your tyres checked? Auto Hero makes it easy to compare local tyre specialists and mechanics. Whether you need a full replacement, alignment, or just a check-up, we help you find the best services at competitive prices. Simply enter your location, compare options, and book with confidence.

Tyres play a crucial role in your car’s safety and performance, so don’t ignore the signs of wear. Keeping up with regular tyre maintenance and knowing when to replace them can save you money, improve your driving experience, and, most importantly, keep you safe on the road.