Tyres are one of the most important safety components on your vehicle, yet they are often not given any importance. Tyre wear directly impacts traction, handling, and braking distance, which is why knowing when to replace them is important. Fortunately, modern tyres come with Tyre Wear Indicators (TWIs) — small raised bars located within the tyre’s tread grooves that become visible once the tread reaches its minimum legal depth (usually 1.6mm). If your tyres have reached this level, it’s time for a replacement.
Why Tyre Wear Indicators Matter
Tyre tread is designed to grip the road, disperse water, and provide traction, especially in adverse weather conditions. As the tread wears down, these capabilities diminish, increasing the risk of accidents. Worn tyres are particularly dangerous in wet conditions where the risk of hydroplaning (losing contact with the road due to water) is much higher. The purpose of Tyre Wear Indicators is to make it easy for drivers to know when their tyres have reached the end of their safe life.
In many countries, driving with tread below the legal limit can also result in fines and failed vehicle inspections. Beyond legalities, worn tyres affect safety and performance. Ignoring tread wear can lead to dangerous consequences, like blowouts or loss of control on slippery roads.
Recognizing Signs Your Tyres Need Replacing
While TWI bars are the most direct way to identify when a tyre needs replacing, there are other important signs to watch for:
Uneven Wear Patterns: If your tyre is wearing more on one side than the other, it may be due to improper wheel alignment or suspension issues. Uneven wear reduces the tyre’s ability to grip the road and can lead to accidents.
Vibrations While Driving: If you feel constant vibrations while driving, especially at higher speeds, it could mean that your tyres are damaged or unbalanced. This can be a sign that they need replacing, particularly if vibrations persist after balancing and alignment.
Cracks, Bulges, or Blisters: Physical damage such as cracks in the rubber, or noticeable bulges, can severely compromise a tyre’s structure. Bulging often indicates that the tyre is at risk of a blowout, which could occur while driving.
Excessive Tread Wear: Even without reaching the TWI bar, if the tread looks noticeably low or uneven, it’s worth having your tyres professionally inspected.
How to Check Your Tread Depth
There are a few simple ways to check your tread depth to ensure it’s still roadworthy:
Using a Tread Depth Gauge: This inexpensive tool allows you to quickly and accurately measure the depth of your tyre tread. Simply place the probe into the groove, and the reading will indicate how much tread is left.
The Coin Test: A common method is the coin test. Insert a coin (such as a 20-cent coin) into the tread groove. If the top of the coin is visible above the tread, it’s time for a new set of tyres.
Visual Inspection: Regularly inspect your tyres for visible signs of wear or damage. While the TWI bars provide an indication, it’s also important to look for cracks, blisters, or unusual wear patterns across the tyre surface.
How to Extend the Life of Your Tyres
Tyre replacement is a necessity, but regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan, saving you money in the long run:
Tyre Rotation: Rotating your tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 km helps ensure even wear. Front and rear tyres experience different loads and driving conditions, leading to uneven wear if they aren’t periodically rotated.
Maintain Proper Air Pressure: Incorrect tyre pressure is one of the biggest contributors to premature tyre wear. Underinflated tyres wear more on the outer edges, while overinflated tyres wear faster in the center. Check your tyre pressure regularly, and ensure it’s at the manufacturer-recommended level.
Wheel Alignment: Poor alignment can lead to uneven tread wear, significantly shortening the life of your tyres. Ensure your wheels are properly aligned and balanced to maximize the lifespan of your tyres.
Avoid Overloading: Carrying too much weight in your vehicle increases the strain on your tyres and accelerates tread wear. Check your vehicle’s load capacity, and avoid overloading whenever possible.
Consequences of Driving on Worn Tyres
Driving on tyres with low tread isn’t just a matter of reduced performance; it’s a major safety risk. Here are some dangers associated with worn tyres:
Increased Braking Distance: Tyres with low tread take much longer to bring your vehicle to a stop, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Hydroplaning: As mentioned earlier, worn tyres have a higher likelihood of losing grip on wet roads, causing you to lose control of the vehicle.
Reduced Traction in All Conditions: Even in dry conditions, worn tyres struggle to maintain grip during cornering or sudden maneuvers.
Increased Risk of Blowouts: Tyres with compromised tread are more prone to punctures and blowouts, particularly on rough or debris-covered roads.
Final Thoughts
Your tyres are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, making them an essential part of your driving safety. By paying attention to Tyre Wear Indicators and regularly inspecting your tyres, you can avoid dangerous situations and costly accidents. Remember that tyre maintenance isn’t just about prolonging the life of your tyres — it’s about keeping you and your passengers safe.
At EverTyres, we offer a wide selection of high-quality tyres for all types of vehicles. Whether you need help inspecting your current tyres or are looking for a new set to keep you safe on the road, our team is here to assist. Visit our nearest location to explore our full range of tyres and take advantage of expert advice to ensure your vehicle remains in peak condition.
Drive safely with EverTyres – your tyre experts!