Car tires are a key component that directly affect both driver safety and ride comfort. When tires are worn or under-inflated, stopping distances get longer and the risk of skidding increases. That’s why it’s important to know the proper replacement cycle and change them on time.
In general, the recommended replacement interval is about 25,000–30,000miles (40,000–50,000km) or roughly every 4–5 years. However, this can vary depending on the driver’s habits, the condition of the roads, and how the tires are maintained. Let’s take a look at how to check when it’s time to replace your tires. You can also refer to the related links provided.
- Check the tire’s manufacturing date
- Check the tread wear indicator
1. Check the tire’s manufacturing date
On the tire’s sidewall, you’ll find a four-digit code following the letters “DOT.” This shows the year and week the tire was produced. For example, DOT 4021 means the tire was manufactured in the 40th week of 2021. Even if the tread looks fine, it’s best to replace tires once they are more than five years old, as natural wear and aging reduce performance.
2. Check the tread wear indicator
If you look closely between the grooves of the tread, you’ll notice a small raised bar that sticks out slightly more than the rest. This is the tread wear indicator. It’s typically set at 1.6 mm (about 2/32 of an inch). Once the tread wears down to this level, the tire’s grip and water drainage performance decline sharply, and the tire should be replaced.
Finally, if you notice uneven wear—such as wear only on one side, cupping, or patchy wear—this often happens because the caster (the tilt of the tire’s center axis) is out of alignment. In such cases, it usually means the wheel alignment is off. It’s best to visit a tire shop and have the alignment checked before continuing to drive.
How to Read Michelin Tire Specifications and What to Check Before Replacement