Hey folks, it’s Coulee back again with another video answering your questions about high-tech cars and modern driving. This one comes in from Kevin in Dallas, who’s having trouble with the tires on his 2018 Ford Explorer Limited.
Kevin noticed that the original Hankook Noble S1 tires on his Explorer needed replacing after only 16,300 miles. He reached out to Hankook, but they gave him a cookie-cutter response. So, what’s the deal?
Well, as our experts at Dependable Tire and Brake in San Rafael, California, explained, tire wear and tire defects are two different things. Warranties cover defects, not wear. And it’s common practice in the car industry to equip new cars with low-quality tires. That’s why you often see listings on eBay for “take off” tires – tires that people have removed from their new cars almost immediately.
So, what can you do to get the most out of your tires, whether they’re the original OEM tires or premium ones you’ve purchased yourself?
First, there’s rotation. Rotating your tires regularly helps to even out the wear and tear, which can extend their lifespan. Follow the pattern recommended in your owner’s manual.
Second, curb weight matters. Heavier vehicles put more stress on tires, so if you have a heavy car, be prepared for more frequent tire replacements.
Third, torque can also affect tire wear. Torque is the twisting power applied to the wheels by the engine, transmission, and driveline. The more torque your car has, the more likely it is to wear down the tires.
Fourth, braking also plays a role in tire wear. When you brake, the tires are subjected to a lot of force, which can cause them to wear down more quickly.
Fifth, the alignment of your vehicle can also affect tire wear. If your wheels are not properly aligned, the tires will wear down unevenly.
Sixth, the type of terrain you drive on can also affect tire wear. If you drive on rough roads or off-road, your tires will wear down more quickly than if you drive on smooth, paved roads.
Seventh, your driving style can also impact tire wear. If you’re a hard braker, a fast accelerator, or a corner carver, you’ll wear down your tires more quickly than someone who drives more conservatively.
Eighth, tire pressure is crucial. Underinflated tires wear down more quickly in the middle, while overinflated tires wear down more quickly on the sides. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it to the recommended level.
Finally, the size of your wheels can also affect tire wear. Larger wheels with a lower profile often have tires made of a softer, stickier compound that wears down more quickly.
By following these tips, you can help to extend the life of your tires and get the most out of your investment.