When we think about tire maintenance, most of us think about tire pressure. But tire tread is important too. How many miles will 1mm of tread last, and how you can look after the tire tread are questions that will help you get the best from your tire.
Tires are an essential part of a car and must be looked after. Many people think you only have to ensure the pressure is correct, but that’s not all. You also need to check the tread on your tires.
The deeper the track, the more distance your car will travel per mm of tire tread. This is because more rubber is touching the road, which gives you more traction. So, how many miles can you expect to get out of your tires? Keep reading to find out!
How Many Miles Will 1mm Of Tread Last?
How many miles will 1 mm of tread last? This question is often asked, but there is no definitive answer. But experts reckon that 1mm tread can last for almost 20% of the distance that a tread can cover. In general that is a rate of about 1mm per five thousand miles. A premium tyre may last longer than that though.
Tread depth varies depending on the type of vehicle, driving habits, how often you press brakes, and other factors. However, a shallower tread generally will not last as long as a deeper tread. In addition, a tire with a worn tread will not grip the road well in wet or icy conditions.
For these reasons, it is essential to regularly check your tires’ tread depth and replace them when they become too worn. You can use a tread depth gauge to measure the depth of your tires’ tread.
The average passenger car tire has a tread depth of about 10/32 inches (8 mm). If your tires’ tread depth is less than 4/32 inch (3 mm), they should be replaced.
You might also like to read: Tire Sidewall Damage When To Replace? : The Complete Guide To Tire Sidewall Damage
Factors Affecting Tire Tread
1. How you drive your car
Your driving style will impact how many miles your tires can last. If you’re constantly making sudden stops or accelerating quickly, your tires will wear down faster.
2. How you take care of your tires
In addition to your driving habits, how you take care of your tires will also affect their lifespan. If you regularly check the tire pressure and keep them inflated to the proper level, they will last longer than if you neglect them. Also, rotate your tires every few thousand miles to eliminate wear and tear.
3. Quality of tires
Finally, the quality of the tires themselves will also play a role in how long they last. Higher-quality tires will typically last longer than lower-quality ones, so it’s essential to factor that into your decision when choosing new tires.
4. Mechanical faults in the car
In some cases, mechanical defects in the vehicle can cause tires to wear down prematurely. If you suspect a car may have a problem, it’s essential to have it checked out by a mechanic to ensure that your tires aren’t being affected.
5. The terrain you drive on
If you frequently drive on rough or unpaved roads, your tires will experience more wear and tear. This can lead to faster tread wear.
6. The weather conditions
Extreme heat or cold can also accelerate tread wear.
7. The age of your tires
They naturally start to lose their tread depth. This is why it’s essential to regularly check the tread depth of your tires and replace them when necessary.
8. The type of vehicle you drive
Heavier cars tend to stress tires, leading to faster tread wear.
Generally, most tyre manufacturers suggest that a tire lasts about 40,000 miles (Michelin says that its closer to 45,000 miles). However, this will vary depending on the factors mentioned above. So if you drive carefully and take good care of your tires, they could last even longer.
But they probably won’t last as long if you’re hard on your tires and don’t maintain them properly. Ultimately, it all comes down to how you use and care for your tires.
You might also like to read: What Do The Numbers On ATV Tires Mean?
How To Make Your Tread Last Longer?
It’s no secret that tires are expensive. So, it makes sense that you want to get as much life out of them as possible. Here are a few tips on how to make your tread last longer:
- Check your tyre pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the proper level. This will help prevent uneven wear.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000 miles or so. This helps ensure even wear and can extend the life of your tread by up to 30%.
- Avoid potholes and other objects that can puncture or damage your tires.
- Inspect your tires regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If you see anything, have it repaired or replaced immediately.
By following these simple tips, you can help prolong the life of your tires and save yourself some money in the long run.
How To Tell If You Need New Tires?
If your car is starting to feel like it’s not handling the road as well as it used to, it might be time for new tires. Here are four signs that indicate you may need new tires:
1. Your tread depth is getting low.
The minimum legal Tyre tread depth in the U.S. is 2/32 of an inch, but most experts recommend replacing your tires when they get down to 4/32 of an inch.
You can check your tread depth by inserting a penny into the grooves. If you can see all of Abraham Lincoln’s head, your tread depth is 4/32 of an inch or less, and you should replace your tires.
Rear tyres have less tread wear than front tyres.
2. Your tire pressure is low.
Under-inflated tires can lead to premature tread wear, lower mileage and decrease tire performance. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
3. Your tires are cracked or damaged.
Any physical damage to your tires, such as cracks or bulges, can weaken the tire’s structure and make it more susceptible to blowouts. If you see any damage, replace the tire immediately.
4. You’re experiencing vibration in the steering wheel or seat.
If you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or seat while driving, it could indicate that your tires are unbalanced or out of round. This can cause premature tread wear and should be addressed by a tire professional.
If you’re unsure whether or not your tires need to be replaced, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult a professional. They can inspect your tires and recommend the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 2 mm tire tread legal?
The answer to this question depends on your location. In the United States, the tread depth is a minimum of 2/32 of an inch, or 1.6 mm. In Europe, the minimum tread depth is 3 mm. So if you’re driving in the U.S., your tires must have at least 2 mm of tread remaining. If you’re driving in Europe, your tires need at least 3 mm of tread remaining.
How many mm is a good tread?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, such as the type of vehicle you drive and the conditions you typically drive in. For example, if you frequently drive in wet or icy conditions, you’ll want a tire with a deeper tread to grip the road better. On the other hand, if you mostly drive in dry conditions, you might get away with shallower tread.
Some experts recommend that passenger tires have a minimum tread depth of 4/32 inches (3.2 mm), while tires used in heavier vehicles (like SUVs) should have a minimum tread depth of 6/32 inches (4.8 mm). Ultimately, it’s best to check your owner’s manual or consult with a professional to see what they recommend for your specific vehicle.
Wrap Up
While there is no definitive answer, a 1mm of tread should last one fifth of the distance that an entire tread can cover.
It’s important to keep your tire treads maintained properly, by ensuring that tire pressure is correct, tires are rotated and aligned on time and replaced as and when need. Thank you for reading, we hope we covered your question and its answer sufficiently!
