How Long Do Tires Really Last? 5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Them

Mileage is only part of the story. Here is how to tell when your tires have given all they have got.

Most tires last about 3 to 5 years, or roughly 25,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on the tire, your driving habits, and road conditions. Replace them sooner if the tread is worn to 2/32″, you see cracks or bulges, the vehicle vibrates or pulls, or the tires are six or more years old.

The Tread Is Worn Down

Tread is what channels water, slush, and snow out from under the tire. Once it wears down to 2/32″, the tire is at the commonly cited legal minimum and needs to go. Look for the small raised “wear bars” molded into the grooves. When the tread is level with them, you are done.

Try the penny test. Put a penny in the groove with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see all of his head, your tread is below 2/32″. If you drive in snow, do the same with a quarter. When you can see all of Washington’s head, you are under 4/32″ and should start shopping.

You See Cracks or Dry Rot

Fine cracks in the sidewall or between the tread blocks mean the rubber is drying out and losing flexibility. Sun, ozone, road salt, and cold all speed this up. Light surface cracking is worth having checked. Deep or widespread cracks mean the tire should be replaced.

There Is a Bulge or Blister on the Sidewall

A bump on the side of the tire usually means the internal structure has been damaged, often from hitting a pothole or curb. The air pressure is then pushing against a weak spot. Of the five signs, this is the one to take most seriously. A bulging tire can fail without warning, so do not wait on it. Have it inspected right away.

The Vehicle Vibrates, Pulls, or Rides Rough

A new shake in the steering wheel or seat, a pull to one side, or a thumping noise can point to a damaged tire, a separated belt, or uneven wear. It can also mean an alignment or balance issue, which is a much cheaper fix. Either way, it is worth a look, because uneven wear shortens tire life quickly.

The Tires Are Too Old

Even tires with plenty of tread can age out. Many tire makers recommend having tires inspected every year once they pass five years old, and most say to replace them by ten years no matter what. Some automakers suggest replacing at six years, so check your owner’s manual.

To find your tire’s age, look on the sidewall for the letters “DOT” followed by a string of characters. The last four digits are the date it was made. For example, 2321 means the 23rd week of 2021. Do not forget the spare, since it ages too.

✓Check your tire pressure monthly and before long trips. Underinflated tires wear faster and run hotter.

✓Rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or as your owner’s manual recommends.

✓Keep your alignment in check. Hitting a big pothole or curb is a good reason to have it looked at.

✓Avoid overloading your vehicle past the limit on the door jamb placard.

✓Fix punctures and slow leaks early. A plug or patch is cheap, but a tire driven flat is often a total loss.

How many miles do tires last?

Most last between 25,000 and 50,000 miles. Your warranty paperwork has the rated tread-life for your specific tires, and your driving habits and maintenance can move that number up or down.

Should I replace all four tires at once?

Ideally, yes. Tires with different amounts of wear can affect handling and, on all-wheel-drive vehicles, can strain the drivetrain. If you only replace two, the new ones usually go on the rear. Our team can tell you what is best for your vehicle.

Can I tell my tire’s age by looking at it?

Yes. Find the DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits show the week and year of manufacture. For example, 1824 means the 18th week of 2024.

Are tires covered by my vehicle warranty?

Tires usually carry their own manufacturer warranty rather than the vehicle’s. Ask us and we can help you sort out what coverage applies to yours.

Not Sure About Your Tires? Let Us Check.

Our service team at Wheelers GMC of Marshfield can measure your tread, check for damage, and tell you how many miles you likely have left. Check our service specials for current tire offers.

Schedule Your Tire Check