What is the 3% tire rule?
The 3% tire rule is a guideline for upsizing tires. It recommends keeping the new tire’s diameter within 3% of the original to avoid affecting performance and safety. The 3% rule states that when replacing tires, the new tire’s diameter should not differ from the original by more than 3%. This guideline helps maintain proper vehicle performance, safety system functionality, and speedometer accuracy.As a general rule, you want replacement tires that are within 3 percent of the diameter (height) measurement of the tires originally on your vehicle.
What age are tyres illegal?
In essence, tyres do not come with an expiration date. While the DOT code indicates the tyre’s age, it does not dictate when it becomes unfit for use or expired. Furthermore, in many countries, including Australia, there are no specific laws mandating that tyres must be a certain age to be road-legal. Yes, tyres do have a recommend shelf life. However again this is just a recommendation. While there isn’t a specific expiration date, tyre manufacturers recommend replacing tires after 6-10 years from the date of manufacture, regardless of tread depth or usage.We recommend replacing tires aged 6-10 years, no matter how much tread remains. When it comes to replacing tires, things can be a little unpredictable. Mileage, condition and routine maintenance all contribute to the tire’s safety and usability. You should replace them if you think they may have compromised integrity.As per NHTSA, Michelin, and Bridgestone, tires’ maximum serviceability should not exceed 6-10 years. They wear out constantly while on the road and, after 6-10 years, are no longer safe to use, regardless of how deep the tread is.There is no definitive tyre age limit as to when you should replace your tyres but once your tyres reach 7-10 years old, you should keep a close eye on their condition and consider replacing them. Tyre ageing is commonly identified by small cracks, known as crazing, which appear in the tyre sidewall.Typically, tires have a lifespan of 6 years in service or 10 years from date of manufacture, whichever comes first. Various factors can impact this general guideline. Tire longevity is influenced by, for example, the quality of the tire, proper tire maintenance and storage, driving habits, and road conditions.
What is the 7 7 rule for tires?
The 7 7 rule for tires provides a simple temperature guideline for timing your seasonal tire changes. Install winter tires when daily temperatures drop to 7°C (45°F) or below for seven consecutive days. Remove them in spring after seven straight days above 7°C. Nonetheless, the recommended time to switch over to Winter Tires should be late September to early November.