Tires generally need to be replaced about every six years or after 36,000 to 75,000 miles of use, depending on factors like climate, driving habits, and maintenance. Tires should never be used longer than 10 years regardless of tread wear because rubber degrades over time and can become unsafe. The critical indicator for replacement is when tire tread depth wears down below 2/32nds of an inch. Signs like loss of traction, frequent need to re-inflate, bulges, cracks, or vibration also mean it's time for new tires. Regular tire rotation every 5,000 to 8,000 miles can help prolong tire life. Drivers with all-wheel-drive vehicles typically need to replace all four tires at once to maintain balance and performance. For others, replacing one or two tires may be possible depending on the wear. In summary:
- Replace tires when tread is below 2/32 inch.
- Replace tires at or after six years.
- Never drive tires older than 10 years.
- Replace sooner if damage or performance issues appear.
- Rotate tires every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to extend life.
