Tires generally last between 3 to 5 years or about 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year under typical driving conditions, but this can vary widely based on maintenance, driving style, and road conditions
. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6 to 10 years regardless of tread depth due to rubber degradation, which affects safety and performance. For example, Goodyear advises replacing tires after 6 years, and Michelin recommends a maximum of 10 years from the date of manufacture, even if the tread looks good
. In terms of mileage, front tires typically last around 20,000 miles, while rear tires can last up to 40,000 miles, though aggressive driving, poor road conditions, and climate can shorten this lifespan
. Proper care such as maintaining correct air pressure, regular rotations, and inspections can extend tire life
. Signs that tires need replacement include worn tread below 3mm (legal minimum is 1.6mm), cracks in the sidewall, loss of traction, vibration, and air pressure loss
. Tires also degrade with age due to exposure to UV, heat, and oxygen, which hardens and weakens the rubber, increasing the risk of failure
. In summary:
- Typical lifespan: 3-5 years or 12,000-15,000 miles/year
- Manufacturer recommended replacement: 6-10 years max regardless of tread
- Mileage: Front tires ~20,000 miles, rear tires up to 40,000 miles
- Replace sooner if tread <3mm, cracks, vibration, or air loss
- Proper maintenance can extend life
This ensures safety and optimal performance on the road
