Centre Wear — Over-Inflation
If the centre of the tread is wearing faster than the edges, the tyre is over-inflated. An over-inflated tyre bulges outward, putting more rubber in contact at the centre and reducing contact at the shoulders. The fix is straightforward: check and adjust pressure to the manufacturer's specification.
Edge Wear — Under-Inflation
Wear concentrated on both outer edges of the tread, with relatively little wear in the centre, indicates under-inflation. The tyre is deflected outward, putting weight onto the shoulders. Again, correct inflation is the solution — along with identifying why the tyre was losing pressure in the first place.
One-Side Wear — Alignment Problem
Wear concentrated on one edge of the tread — either inside or outside — points to a wheel alignment problem. When wheels are toed-in or toed-out beyond specification, or when camber is incorrect, the tyre scrubs along one edge. Wheel alignment should be checked and corrected, followed by tyre replacement if the wear has already caused significant damage.
Patchy or Scalloped Wear — Balance or Suspension
An irregular pattern of high and low wear spots, sometimes called scalloping or cupping, suggests a wheel balance problem, worn shock absorbers, or worn suspension bushes. The tyre bounces as it rotates rather than making consistent contact, wearing in an uneven pattern. Have wheel balance and suspension components checked.
Diagonal Wear Across the Tread
A diagonal stripe of wear indicates a combination of alignment and balance issues. Newport Mobile Tyres recommends that any unusual tyre wear pattern is investigated promptly — continuing to drive on a poorly wearing tyre risks premature failure. Call 01633 855 522 to discuss what the wear pattern on your tyres might mean.
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