Auto Maintenance: Understanding the Common Causes of Irregular Tyre Wear
The uneven wear of tread can be frustrating because this problem compromises the function of the tyres and shortens their lifespan. In simple terms, when tyres experience degradation on certain sections, the performance of the vehicle will change. Over time, the tyre will not be in firm contact with the road when driving. Consequently, handling could become difficult, increasing the risk of loss of control. If this issue is not prevented, the vehicle owner will need to perform frequent tyre replacements. Here is a brief discussion to help you understand the causes of irregular tyre wear and ideal solutions.
Inner or Outer Wear
If your tyres are showing signs of wear on one of the edges, you should have a mechanic check the alignment of your wheels. In general, if the wheels are out of alignment, the angle of the wheel will face inwards or outwards, causing the wear of the edges. The wear is usually on one edge of the tyre; the other side will be almost free of wear. If the problem is not resolved, the tyres will become unstable and unusable. Regular alignment of the wheels should prevent recurrence of the uneven wear.
Centre Wear
In some cases, the tyre tread might wear out at the centre while the edges remain in good condition. This problem can be attributed to overinflation. If the air pressure is too high, the centre of the tyre will swell outwards. Consequently, the centre part will have to bear most of the vehicle weight. Eventually, the tread on the tyre will become degraded, necessitating replacement. It is important to check your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations on the tyre pressure to avoid this type of irregular wear.
Edge Wear
If the edges of your tyres are showing accelerated wear, you should check on your air pressure. Often, this deterioration indicates the constant underinflation of the tyres. You should note that this type of wear is different from the degradation caused by misaligned wheels because both edges experience loss of tread. You should follow the air pressure levels indicated by the manufacturer. In addition, avoid adjusting pressure when the tyres are hot because the readings will be incorrect.
Cupping
Cupping is an uncommon form of irregular wear of the tyres. The degradation can be defined as the diagonal scalloping or indentation of the surface treads. Cupping wear is a serious concern because it indicates a problem in the suspension components. You should consult a mechanic at a local car service centre for immediate troubleshooting and repair to avoid complete vehicle failure.
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