Tire Wear & Tear

To help maintain even treadwear and prolong tire life, review this quick reference about alignment, rotation, and visual inspections. For a professional evaluation, find a Goodyear dealer location near you.

Misalignment of the front or rear wheels can cause rapid or uneven wear. Front-wheel-drive vehicles and those with independent rear suspension require alignment of all four wheels, instead of two. Getting your alignment checked as specified in your vehicle's owner's manual is the recommended way to prolong tire life.1

Sometimes irregular tire wear can be corrected by rotating your tires. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual or visit a Goodyear dealer location near you to find the appropriate rotation pattern for your vehicle. If your tires show uneven wear, ask a Goodyear expert to check for and correct any misalignment, imbalance, or other mechanical problem involved before rotation.1

A tire's tread directly affects how it grips the road, so it's important to regularly inspect it visually for signs of uneven wear. These signs can include high or low areas, or unusually smooth ones.1

1 "Be Tire Smart," The Rubber Manufacturers Association.

Visual Inspection

Inspecting your tires can help you find punctures or other visible signs of damage that could necessitate replacement.

Repairs

It's crucial to know when it's okay to have a tire repaired and when a tire should be replaced

  • If a tire loses air pressure, it should be removed for an internal inspection.
  • Driving on a flat tire for even a short distance can ruin it
  • Most punctures, nail holes, or cuts up to 1/4 in. (.64 cm) can be repaired if the damage is confined to the tread
  • Do not repair any sidewall or tread punctures larger than 1/4 in. (.64 cm), and NEVER repair tires worn below 1/16 in. (.16 cm) 

Wheel Balance & Alignment

Having your tires balanced and your vehicle properly aligned is important for tire longevity and vehicle performance.

  • Unbalanced tires cause road vibration, which can lead to driver fatigue, premature tire wear (also known as cupping or dipping), and unnecessary wear to your vehicle's suspension

  • Tires should be balanced whenever they're mounted on wheels

  • They should be rebalanced at the first sign of a vibration or shimmy, and once a year

 

Additional Resources