Experiencing Uneven Tyre Wear? Common Problems & Fixes

Uneven tyre wear is a common issue that can reduce the lifespan of your tyres, affect your car’s performance, and even compromise safety. If you’ve noticed one side of your tyres wearing out faster than the other, it’s crucial to address the problem early. In this blog, we’ll explore the main causes of uneven tyre wear, how to identify them, and what you can do to fix them.
Common Causes of Uneven Tyre Wear
  1. Incorrect Tyre Pressure
  • Problem: Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres cause uneven tread wear. Under-inflation leads to wear on the edges, while over-inflation causes excessive wear in the centre.
  • Fix: Check your tyre pressure regularly using a pressure gauge and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (found in your car manual or inside the driver’s door frame). This is crucial to ensure your safety on the roads!
  1. Misaligned Wheels
  • Problem: If your wheels are not correctly aligned, one side of the tyre may wear out faster. Misalignment is a common issue and can be caused by hitting potholes, kerbs, or general wear and tear.
  • Fix: Get a wheel alignment check at least once a year or whenever you notice uneven wear, steering drift, or a vibrating steering wheel. Call us at 0116 319 0400 or visit TyreZone Leicester to get your wheel alignment check today!
  1. Worn Suspension Components
  • Problem: Faulty suspension parts (such as worn-out shock absorbers or struts) can cause uneven tyre wear by failing to keep the tyres in proper contact with the road.
  • Fix: Have your suspension inspected regularly, especially if you experience excessive bouncing, drifting, or noise while driving.
  1. Unbalanced Tyres
  • Problem: When tyres are not balanced correctly, they can cause vibration and uneven tread wear, particularly in specific spots on the tyre.
  • Fix: Get your tyres balanced whenever you fit new ones or every 5,000-6,000 miles to ensure even wear.
  1. Driving Habits
  • Problem: Aggressive driving such as hard braking and fast cornering can lead to uneven tyre wear, especially on the edges.
  • Fix: Drive smoothly and safely, avoid sudden braking, and take corners at a moderate speed to prolong your tyre life.
  1. Overloading Your Vehicle
  • Problem: Carrying excessive weight puts additional strain on your tyres, leading to uneven tread wear.
  • Fix: Avoid exceeding your car’s maximum load capacity (check your owner’s manual) and distribute weight evenly in the vehicle.
How to Identify Uneven Tyre Wear
  • Visual Inspection: Look for bald patches, excessive wear on one side, or a rough texture on the tread.
  • Steering Issues: If your car pulls to one side, it could indicate alignment or tyre wear problems.
  • Vibration While Driving: If you feel vibrations in the steering wheel, it may be due to unbalanced or worn-out tyres.
When to Replace Your Tyres

If your tyres have excessive wear, cracks, or a tread depth below 1.6mm (UK legal limit), it’s time to replace them. Driving on worn tyres reduces grip and increases the risk of accidents.

Get Professional Tyre Inspection at TyreZone Leicester

If you’re experiencing uneven tyre wear, TyreZone Leicester can help! We offer wheel alignment, tyre balancing, and professional tyre inspections to keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently.

🔧 Book your tyre check today! Call us at 0116 319 0400 or visit our garage in Leicester.

A close-up of a tyre's sidewall showing branding and specifications.
FAQs
  1. How often should I check my tyre pressure?
    At least once a month and before long trips.
  2. Can I drive with uneven tyre wear?
    It’s not recommended. It can reduce handling and safety.
  3. How much does wheel alignment cost?
    Prices vary, but investing in alignment can save you money by extending tyre life. Call us today at 0116 319 0400 for a quote!

Final Thoughts

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your tyres, improve fuel efficiency, and stay safe on the road. If you need expert advice, TyreZone Leicester is here to help! 🚗💨