WHY DO MY TIRES HAVE UNEVEN WEAR?
Bryna Christensen • September 22, 2025
UNDERSTANDING THE CAUSES AND HOW TO FIX THEM
Uneven tire wear is one of those issues that can sneak up on drivers. You might notice one side of a tire is more worn than the other, or that your tread looks patchy instead of smooth and even. Not only does this shorten the life of your tires, but it can also affect your vehicle’s safety, handling, and fuel economy.
At Eureka Brake & Automotive, we want to help you understand why this happens and what you can do about it.
COMMON CAUSES OF UNEVEN TIRE WEAR
- Wheel Alignment Issues- If your wheels are even slightly out of alignment, your tires won’t make proper contact with the road. This can cause wear on the inside or outside edges of the tire.
- Improper Tire Pressure-Overinflated tires wear down the center tread faster, while underinflated tires wear on the outer edges. Regularly checking your tire pressure can make a big difference.
- Suspension Problems- Worn shocks, struts, or other suspension parts can cause your tires to bounce or press unevenly against the road, leading to irregular wear patterns.
- Unbalanced Tires- If your tires aren’t balanced, they may cause vibrations while driving, which can lead to uneven tread wear over time.
- Driving Habits- Hard cornering, sudden braking, or aggressive acceleration can all take a toll on your tires and create uneven wear.
WHY IT MATTERS
Uneven wear reduces traction, which means less grip on the road—especially in wet weather. It can also cause vibrations, steering problems, and put added strain on other parts of your vehicle. Catching the issue early can save you money on tires and prevent more costly repairs down the road.
HOW TO FIX & PREVENT UNEVEN WEAR
- Schedule regular alignments and tire rotations (we recommend every 5,000–6,000 miles).
- Keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
- Have your suspension checked if you notice bouncing, pulling, or unusual tire wear.
- Address vibrations early—don’t ignore them.
If you’ve noticed uneven wear on your tires, it’s a good idea to have your vehicle inspected. At Eureka Brake & Automotive, our technicians can diagnose the cause, get your wheels properly aligned, and help extend the life of your tires.
Don’t wait until your tires are bald—schedule an appointment today and drive with confidence.
Schedule an appointment online or call us now at 707-443-2122!
*Stay connected with us on social media for updates, tips, and special offers throughout the year. We love hearing from you and are always here to help with any automotive questions or needs you might have.
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