Causes of Irregular Tyre Wear

Ensuring that your vehicle's tyres are in good condition is imperative for your safety and the smooth operation of your vehicle. Although we do our best to maintain them, encountering irregular tyre wear can be frustrating. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent this from happening. By understanding the causes of irregular tyre wear, we can take proactive steps to keep our tyres in top condition. In this article, we'll explore some of the reasons behind this issue and provide helpful tips on how to avoid it. 

Overinflation

If the inflation pressure is too high for the load of the vehicle, the ground pressure will increase around the centre of the tyre’s contact patch, therefore increasing wear on this part of the tyre.

Underinflation

When the inflation pressure of a vehicle's tyre is not sufficient for its load, the pressure on the ground around the tyre's contact patch shoulders increases. This leads to an increase in wear on that part of the tyre. Furthermore, the tyre's operating temperature rises, which can adversely affect its structure's integrity and cause damage.

Driven axle

It's important to note that tyres on the driven axle of a car tend to wear out faster than those on the free-rolling axle. This is especially true for front-wheel drive vehicles, where the front tyres may experience additional wear due to steering forces. To maintain a uniform pattern of wear on your tyres, it's recommended that you rotate your wheels from the powered to the non-powered axle regularly. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your specific vehicle. 

Road surface

When driving aggressively, a rough and abrasive road surface can significantly reduce the lifespan of your car's tyres.

Driving style

When driving fast and sporty, your tyres wear out quicker due to strong acceleration, braking, and fast cornering speeds.

Pressure and load

If the air pressure in a tyre is too low for the weight of the vehicle, it can cause slipping in the tire's contact area, particularly between the centre and shoulder. This increased slipping can cause higher levels of wear and tear on the tyre and reduce its lifespan.

Suspension geometry

Improperly adjusted steering and suspension geometry can significantly reduce the lifespan of your tyres. This can be identified by irregular wear on the tyre shoulder. If you suspect any issue with either the steering or suspension, especially after an unexpected jolt like hitting a pothole or bumping into a curb, it is recommended to visit your nearby tyre fitment centre for an inspection.

Engine power

Cars that have high power and torque can cause their tyres to wear out faster over time. However, the extent of this wear and tear also depends on how the driver uses the car's capabilities. For cars with high torque, the best option would be to use an ultra-high performance (UHP) tyre, which is specifically designed to match the performance capabilities of such cars.

Tyre pressure

Maintaining the recommended tyre pressure is also a factor in better fuel economy. The best practice is to check your tyre pressure every two to four weeks and to follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations for part and full loads when inflating your tyres.

Tyre rotation

To extend the lifespan of your car tyres, it's a good practice to regularly rotate their positions unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise. By doing so, you can ensure even wear and ultimately save money on premature tyre replacements.

Your tyre's average lifespan should range between 25 000 kms – 50 000 kms. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this article you could easily achieve this lifespan. Be sure to visit your nearest BestDrive Tyre Fitment Centre, should any problem arise, to receive a precise evaluation and excellent service.