Good tires keep your car reliable and safe on the road. While most drivers understand that they become less sturdy over time, many don’t realize that they can wear unevenly. Below are a few possible causes behind uneven wear, so that you can stay safe behind the wheel.

Why Do Tires Wear at Different Rates?

1. Improper Pressure

Tires are meant to have a certain amount of air in them. You can find the right amount for yours in the owner’s manual or from the manufacturer. Sometimes a slow leak from a puncture or a simple factory defect can cause one to lose air more quickly than others. 

This leads to uneven tread, as the pressure of the road isn’t counterbalanced by the correct amount of air pressure. They should be flat to the ground when inflated correctly. If the center dips up, they don’t have enough air. If the sides dip up, they have too much.

2. Poor Alignment

Alignment refers to the angle of a tire when viewed from the front, side, or above. They should be straight to ensure they’re connected properly to the vehicle’s suspension components like the ball joints, shocks, and struts. 

Your alignment keeps the tires at the right angle when they’re in motion. This helps them disperse the force of the road evenly, preventing wear. When the alignment is off, it can wear down at a faster rate.

3. Bent Rims

Driving over a pothole or up onto a curb can easily cause a wheel to bend and become warped. This type of damage to the rim also impacts the tire, as it must move with the damaged part whenever the wheels turn.

This one will almost always wear down quicker than the others, making it more susceptible to leaks or blowouts until the rim issue is corrected. As such, always get a bent rim fixed quickly, so the problem doesn’t cause more damage.

When you need service for your tires, choose B&L Auto Diesel Tires & Alignment in Andrews, TX. From basic auto maintenance to brake work and even lift kit installation, this auto expert has you covered on nearly any vehicular problem you may have. They also have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®, so you know you’re in good hands. To get in touch to schedule an appointment, call (432) 523-3480. Visit their website for a closer look at what they do.