​Common causes and prevention of uneven tyre spots.

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Unusual tyre tread wear patterns like flat spots and extreme wear on one side is a safety risk.

These can indicate a failed front end suspension or weight overload – but the most two common causes of early and irregular tyre wear are:

1) improper inflation pressure and

2) incorrect wheel alignment.

Uneven tyre wear is not something that can be fixed, but should rather be prevented.

Inflation

To prevent uneven tyre wear:

Know the correct pressure for all four tyres, as inflation recommendations for front and back can differ. This can be found on the label along the driver’s side door jamb or in your manual.

Regularly check the pressure of all tyres including the spare, best every two weeks.

Wheel alignment

Misalignment negatively affects steering, suspension, and ultimately your safety. Proper wheel alignment is an adjustment of the angles of the tyres and their contact with the road, and not the tyres or wheels themselves.

To check your wheel alignment:

Examine your tyre – if the inner or outer edge is more worn than the rest of the tyre’s tread, it’s likely misaligned.

Besides decreasing the lifespan of the tyre, uneven wear affects your car’s handling capability, reduces steering response, decreases fuel economy, compromises braking and traction, increases the risk of tyre leaks or bursts, and overall puts your safety at risk.