Understanding Tire Wear Patterns

Learn what different tire wear patterns tell you about your vehicle's alignment and suspension.

Reading Your Tires

Your tires can tell you a lot about your vehicle's health. Different wear patterns indicate specific problems.

Excessive wear in the center of the tread usually indicates over-inflation. Check your tire pressure and adjust to the recommended level.

Wear on both edges typically means under-inflation. This increases fuel consumption and reduces tire life.

Wear on only one edge indicates alignment problems. Have your alignment checked and corrected.

Uneven, wavy wear patterns suggest worn suspension components, particularly shocks or struts.

Feathered edges (smooth on one side, sharp on the other) indicate toe alignment issues.

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