How to Check Tire Tread and Know When to Change Tires

Knowing when to change tires is crucial for safety, particularly during heavy rains, high temperatures, and rough roads here in the Philippines. You should replace your tires when the tread depth drops below 1.6 millimeters. This is the minimum safe level for proper road grip and braking.

Aside from low tread, there are other warning signs:

Cracks or bulges on the sidewalls
Uneven tread wear
Visible damage like cuts or punctures

If any of these are present, the tire should be replaced immediately—even if the tread still looks acceptable.

When to Replace Tires

Several factors help you decide when it’s time to replace your tires. The most important one is tread depth. You can test this using a 1-peso coin. Insert the coin into the groove face down. If the silver rim is visible, your tread is too shallow.

Uneven wear is another issue. If one side is more worn than the other, this could be caused by poor alignment, unbalanced tires, or suspension issues.

Tire age also plays a major role. Over time, the rubber breaks down due to heat and weather, even if the tire hasn’t been used much. Start yearly inspections after 5 years, and always replace tires that are 10 years old or more, regardless of their appearance.

How to Check Tire Tread

You don’t need special tools to check your tread. The coin method is quick and easy, but if you want to be more accurate, use a tread depth gauge from a local auto shop.

Look for built-in tread wear indicators—these are small raised rubber bars inside the tread grooves. When the tread becomes level with these bars, the tire has reached its wear limit and needs replacement.

Inspect your tires monthly. Always check across different spots, since wear might not be even.

How Many Kilometers Before Changing Tires

Tire life depends on how and where you drive, but most tires in the Philippines last between 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers. Road quality, weather, and driving habits affect this range.

For example:

Drivers in cities like Metro Manila may experience faster wear due to frequent braking and traffic.
Rural or mountainous areas may cause faster wear due to unpaved roads.

As a rule of thumb, have your tires checked every 5,000 kilometers, especially if you drive long distances or carry heavy loads.

Learn How to Change a Tire: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

How Often to Change Tires

There is no single schedule for everyone, but a few key guidelines apply:

Replace tires once the tread is below 1.6 mm
Replace after 10 years, no matter how good they look
Check for damage monthly
Rotate tires every 8,000–10,000 km
Inspect alignment at least once a year

These practices help you extend the life of your tires and reduce the risk of sudden tire failure.

Should You Replace All Four Tires?

Whenever possible, replace all four tires at once to maintain balanced handling and braking. This is especially important for front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive vehicles.

If you can only replace two tires, always install the new ones on the rear axle. This gives your vehicle better stability during sudden stops or turns. Make sure the replacement tires match the size, type, and speed rating of the old ones.

Learn Tire Size Guide for Drivers in the Philippines

Are Used Tires Safe?

Used tires might seem like a cheaper option, but they come with hidden dangers. You won’t always know how the tire was used or stored. It may have:

Internal damage
Uneven wear
Sidewall cracks
Previous patches or repairs

Used tires also wear out faster and may not be as reliable during emergencies. For long-term safety, it’s best to invest in new, quality tires that meet your vehicle’s specs.

Talk to a Tire Professional

A trusted local tire shop can help you choose the right tires for your vehicle and driving needs. In the Philippines, road types vary—from city traffic to provincial highways to mountain roads—so it’s important to select tires that match your typical driving conditions.

Before buying, ask about:

Tire lifespan and warranty
Free installation or balancing
Rotation and alignment services
Promo packages or seasonal discounts

You can also talk to us at KGCAR.PH if you want any help in securing the right type of tire for your vehicle.

In Summary

Here’s a quick summary of essential tire care practices:

Tread depth check – Monthly
Visual inspection for damage – Monthly
Tire pressure check – Monthly
Tire rotation – Every 8,000 to 10,000 km
Wheel alignment – Once a year or after a heavy impact
Tire age inspection – Yearly after 5 years
Full tire replacement – After 10 years or 40,000–60,000 km

By following these habits, you’ll stay safer on the road, improve your vehicle’s handling, and get better fuel economy. Regular checks also help you avoid unexpected tire failures and costly repairs.