It is the question we hear most at the counter: how long should my tyres last? The honest answer is it depends on mileage, driving style and road conditions - but here are the hard limits and warning signs every driver should know.
The Legal Minimum
UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre, all the way round. That said, wet braking performance falls off sharply below 3mm, so we recommend planning your replacement around that figure rather than gambling on the legal limit.
The Ten Year Rule
Rubber degrades with age even when tread remains. Most manufacturers advise replacing tyres once they reach ten years old, and many recommend inspection from six years. The date code is moulded into the sidewall - four digits showing the week and year of manufacture.
Warning Signs To Watch For
- Cracking or bulging on the sidewall
- Vibration that balancing does not cure
- Uneven wear across the width of the tyre
- Tyres losing pressure faster than they used to
- Visible wear bars sitting level with the tread
Walsall Roads Wear Tyres Faster
Between stop-start town traffic, roundabout-heavy routes and our share of potholes, front tyres in Walsall often need replacing sooner than the national average. Regular checks catch problems early - and ours are free.
Frequently Asked
How many miles do tyres last?
Typically 20,000 to 40,000 miles depending on brand and driving style. Front-wheel-drive cars wear fronts roughly twice as fast as rears.
Can I replace just two tyres?
Yes, fitting the new pair to the rear axle is best practice. We will advise what suits your car.