Common Causes for Uneven or Fast Wear in Tires

It is normal for the tire tread to gradually become shallower and for overall tire performance to diminish over time. There are a lot of causes for the uneven or fast wear in tires. Regularly checking the tread depth and the wear condition of the tires on each of your vehicles will increase your overall safety and help you to determine when it is time to replace a tire. It can also help you to detect other car maintenance services that may be needed, so that you can get the most value out of your vehicle and tires. We take a look at the most common causes for the uneven or fast wear in tires:

Common Causes for Tire Wear

It is important to spot signs of uneven tire wear early and to take corrective action as this will ensure your safety, extend the life of your tires, and enhance the optimum performance of your tires. Common causes for uneven wear include:

• Worn-Out Suspension Components

A leaking strut or a worn out shock can contribute to uneven tire wear.

• Worn-Out Steering Parts

Steering parts that are worn out (such as a loose ball joint and a worn out tie rod end) can lead to tires that are not held at the angle they should be. This condition causes excess friction, which will quickly wear away the tire tread.

• Uneven and Incorrect Tire Pressure

The incorrect tire pressure will cause excessive wear. Over-inflation will cause the center of the tread to wear out faster, whereas under-inflation will cause the inner and outer shoulders to wear out quickly.

• Wheels are Out of Alignment

If a tire is at an incorrect angle, excessive tire wear will occur and it will be noticeably quicker on the affected wheel.

Types of Uneven Wear in Tires

• Middle Tread Wear

Excessive wear in the middle of your tire indicates that the tire is overinflated. It could also be a result of extremely wide tires on narrow rims. This can be solved by adjusting the tire pressure accordingly.

• Outer Tread Wear

This type of wear on your tire is most often the result of consistent under inflation or a serious problem with alignment. Click here to learn more about alignments or to schedule an appointment at Fred’s Auto Repair.

• One-Side Tread Wear

This misalignment could be caused by worn ball joints or worn control arm bushings.

• Feathering and Cupping Tread Wear

Cupping indicates that the suspension may be worn, bent or compromised. An incorrect toe-in setting may cause feathering.

Fred’s Auto Repair has a wide assortment of tires, a long history of excellent auto repair services, and certified ASE car mechanics on staff to help you with both your tire and car maintenance. Contact us now for affordable tires and brakes services or check out our services at tires near me.