Whether you have an existing set of SUV tires or need to replace them, you need to know how long they will last before committing your finances.
SUV tires, in particular, are designed with a durable tread life to help them perform exceptionally well no matter the season. But, how exactly do SUV tires last? Read on for more information.
How Long Do SUV Tires Last?
SUV tires can typically last between 50,000 to 70,000 miles (80,000km to 112,000 km), while some high-performance SUV tires can last longer. On average, car owners commute 13,500 miles each year, so SUV tires should last about three to five years. However, this depends on the driving habits, tire maintenance, road conditions, and tire brand.
To learn more about how long SUV tires last, how many seasons you can use them, when, and how to change them, read on!
How Many Miles Do SUV Tires Last?
Once you buy new tires for your SUV, you could get an average of 50,000 to 70,000 miles on the road.
However, according to Consumer Reports treadwear tests, some of the top-rated SUV tires can give drivers up to 85,000 miles with proper care.
SUV tires are designed to handle most road terrains and are well equipped for all seasons to provide enhanced performance during snow and rainy conditions.
On average, an individual drives about 13,500 miles every year; therefore, SUV tires will last you about 3.7 – 5.1 years and an average of 4.4 years.
Typically, this lifespan is the average wear on most tire brands when properly managed and driven under normal road conditions.
Just like other tires, SUV tires will last longer depending on varying factors. The total mileage will differ according to how an individual maintains the tires, driving habits, road conditions, and weather conditions.
For instance, if you drive your SUV mostly on highways, the driving is less demanding because there are no potholes or sharp bends to hit.
However, if your tires are more exposed to harsh driving conditions and terrain or narrow roads, your tire tread will be significantly affected by the constant braking, potholes, and heavy cornering.
Do SUV Tires Wear Out Fast?
Like most tires, SUV tires don’t wear out fast unless they are exposed to off-road or uneven terrains that wear out the tread much faster.
Furthermore, the wear-out rate depends on the individual driver; if your driving habits are poor, your tires will not last for too long.
Your tires will also be affected by weather conditions. During summer, the high temperatures cause tires to overinflate, while the reverse will happen during winter.
While most tire brands give a high warranty for SUV tires, some customers report experiencing poor traction on their set after about 40,000 miles.
How Often Should You Replace SUV Tires?
According to tire professionals, if you have used your tires for more than five years, you should have them checked regularly for any damages or tread wear.
However, if your tires are more than ten years old, you should replace them with new ones immediately for the safety of your car. You should change them even when they appear to be in good condition.
Replacing tires is critical because it provides the necessary safety when you are driving on the road.
Legally, the tread depth limit is 1.66mm; therefore, when your tires have reached this limit, it’s time for them to be replaced. Otherwise, you’ll get into legal and financial trouble.
Therefore, every month or before any long trip, you should check your SUV tires to confirm that the tread depth is in order.
Additionally, you can observe how the tires grip the road surface when driving. If they have reduced traction than usual, it might be time to replace them.
How Do You Check For The Expiration Date On SUV Tires?
Most if not all tire companies have the date of manufacture printed on the sidewall to help car owners determine the tire’s age.
Since manufacturers recommend changing tires after 10 years, you should check this date once you buy your tires to help you determine the right time to change them.
Known as the Department of Transportation (DOT) code, this serial number has a mix of letters and numbers representing the manufacturer’s code, tire tread, while the last four digits represent the exact week and year the tire was manufactured.
This code is usually embossed on either side of your tire sidewall; therefore, you can check by detaching the tire first.
What Are The Signs That You Need Your SUV Tires Replaced?
Apart from checking the DOT serial number, there are other essential elements that you can use to determine whether it’s time to replace your SUV tires. Here are some of them.
Sidewall Cracks
It’s common to find tire cracks and cuts if you drive your SUV on rough terrain.
In addition, these cracks can also be caused by excessive heat, hot asphalt, ozone exposure which affect the tire pressure.
Additionally, if you hit rocks, potholes, curbs, sharp objects, or bumps at a sharp speed, your tires are more likely to get cuts that accelerate aging.
Therefore, you should constantly check for any cuts at home or using a professional mechanic to avoid potential punctures or tire blowouts.
Tread Wear
Treadwear is one of the top methods used to determine whether SUV tires need to be replaced. You can use the penny test method to check how shallow or deep the tire groove is.
With this method, you can check for tread depth at home without having to visit a mechanic. Your tire is considered unsafe when the tread is worn down to 2/32”.
Vibration and Tire Noise
If your tires have been worn out unevenly, you’ll experience vibration in the steering wheel, which makes driving uncomfortable.
Furthermore, the car and the tires will become noisy even when driving on smooth roads because they are unstable.
If you feel these vibrations, consult a professional to identify the root of the problem early enough.
Tire Bulges
When observing your tires, you might notice some bulges which indicate that the rigid internal tire frame has been damaged.
This happens when there is a problem with the air pressure; therefore, you need to replace the tires immediately once you notice such issues.
Do SUV Tires Last Through All Seasons
Most SUV tires are designed for all types of terrains. While most are all-season, tire manufacturers also produce some specifically for the winter and summer seasons.
Therefore, if you have an SUV, you can use the all-season tires and switch them up during other seasons such as winter and summer because of the temperature change.
To find out more about tires, you can also see our posts on how long do performance tires last, how long do Goodyear tires last, and if all-season tires are good for winter.
Conclusion
SUV tires can last between 50,000 and 70,000 miles on average, depending on how they are used.
While some tire brands can rack up to 80,000 miles, some customers manage to only get 40,000 miles.
This mileage variation comes about because of the different individual use. SUV tires will last longer if properly maintained and driven in the right road and weather conditions.
Although SUV tires can handle rough terrains, improper use will significantly reduce the average lifespan.
With the right conditions, your SUV tires will last between three to five years before changing them.