Should I replace all four tyres at once?

Replacing all four keeps grip balanced and is essential for AWD vehicles. If you only replace two, fit the new tyres to the rear axle for better wet-weather stability.

How long do tyres usually last?

Most passenger tyres last 40,000–60,000km, but this depends heavily on driving style, alignment, rotation and road conditions. Regular rotation and correct pressure extend tyre life.

When to Replace Your Tyres: Tread, Age & Warning Signs

Know when to replace your tyres: the 1.6mm legal tread limit, the 5–10 year age rule, and warning signs like cracks, bulges and uneven wear.

Check your tread depth

The legal minimum tread depth in Australia is 1.6mm across the main grooves. Below this, your tyre is illegal and unsafe, especially in the wet.

Most tyres have moulded tread wear indicators — small raised bars sitting in the grooves. When the tread is level with these bars, the tyre has reached 1.6mm and must be replaced.

For better wet-weather safety, many experts recommend replacing tyres at around 3mm rather than waiting for the legal limit.

Consider the age of the tyre

Rubber hardens and degrades over time, even on a car that isn't driven much. As a guide, tyres should be inspected closely after 5 years and replaced by around 10 years regardless of tread.

You can find the manufacture date on the sidewall — a four-digit DOT code where the first two digits are the week and the last two are the year (for example 2523 means the 25th week of 2023).

Warning signs to watch for

Cracks in the sidewall, bulges or blisters, persistent vibration, or visible cords mean the tyre should be replaced immediately.

Uneven wear — more wear on one edge, or scalloped patches — often points to alignment, balancing or suspension issues. Fixing the cause when you fit new tyres protects your investment.