Car owners sometimes settle on a cheaper option when purchasing new tires, but then worry about how long cheap tires are good for and if they wear more quickly than more expensive tires. It’s a valid concern, and the answer depends on a number of variables.
The cost of a tire may depend on the brand, labor costs, and materials used in the product, among other factors. While expensive tires are usually perceived to be of higher quality, both cheap and expensive tires can wear out quickly depending on driving habits, road conditions, and climate.
How Long Are Cheap Tires Good For?
The lifespan of cheap tires depends on multiple factors, such as how often you drive and what type of roads you primarily travel. Generally speaking, the best cheap tires last anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles before needing to be replaced. The exact amount of time and mileage varies based on the tire brand, type of car, and driving habits of the person using the car.
What Causes Tires to Wear Out Faster?
The wear and tear of tires is a major concern for all car owners, regardless of whether the tires are expensive or cheap. Here are six main contributing factors that impact the life of tires and cause them to wear out faster:
1. Road Conditions
Potholes, bumps, debris, and other road hazards can cause tires to wear out more quickly. Road conditions can cause tires to wear out much faster due to the sudden jolts and vibrations of driving on uneven terrain. The tread wears down quickly because the tires have to work harder to grip the road surface and provide stability.
2. Driving Habits
Aggressive driving habits such as speeding, rapid acceleration, and sudden braking can cause tires to wear out faster due to the increased stress on the tires. For example, cars that frequently have to brake and accelerate to slow down and speed up in stop-and-go traffic will need to replace the tires more often.
3. Vehicle Weight
The heavier a vehicle is, the more pressure it puts on tires, which can cause them to wear out faster, resulting in the need to buy new tires sooner. For instance, vehicles carrying a heavy load are more likely to have excessive tire wear due to the additional weight.
4. Climate
Severe weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can cause tires to wear out quickly. During hot summer months, tires are exposed to more heat and increased friction. Cold temperatures can be hard on tires, too, because cold temperatures can cause the rubber to harden and wear out more quickly.
5. Tire Alignment
Improper tire alignment is another factor that can cause tires to wear out. Poorly aligned tires will cause the tread to wear down on one side of the tire from the uneven pressure, which can result in the need to replace tires sooner than expected.
6. Tire Maintenance
Tire maintenance is important in keeping tires in peak condition and prolonging their lifespan. By regularly checking the air pressure, inspecting the treads, and rotating the tires, you can help keep them going for much longer.
In Summary
By taking note of these factors and doing regular tire maintenance, you can help increase the lifespan of your tires, regardless of whether they’re expensive or cheap. With proper care, even cheap tires can last up to 50,000 miles before needing to be replaced.
Wondering if tires are cheaper on Black Friday? Check out our latest post!