Are you shopping for new tires again…already? Shouldn’t these tires have lasted another year or so? If your tires have worn out prematurely, find out if they are covered under the tire manufacturer's tread-life mileage warranty before you buy new ones. Every tire manufacturer has its own limited warranty but they all typically cover things like tread life, materials, workmanship, and uniformity. Most tire warranties will cover tires up to a certain mileage or tread depth but will expire several years from the date of purchase. Read this blog to learn more about tire warranties and how they work.
What is the expected life of a tire?
Most tire manufacturers have concluded that the usable tread life for a tire is when there are 2/32nds of an inch of tread left or six years from the date of purchase. 2/32nds of an inch is hard to picture without a reference point, but there are 2 easy ways to check the tread depth of your tires to see how much life is left in them.
Tread Wear Indicators – Every tire sold in North America is required to have tread-wear indicators built into them. These tire wear indicators are found in the tire tread grooves and look like little bars of tread that run at a 90-degree angle. If the tread of the tire is worn down to this indicator, you need a new tire or 2 or 4 new tires. Keep in mind if one tire needs to be replaced, it is likely that the others that were purchased at the same time will need to be replaced soon as well. It is recommended to replace tires in sets of 2 or 4.
The Penny Test - Another way to check the tread depth is the penny test. Put a penny upside down in the groove of the tire with Lincoln’s head facing you. 2/32nds of an inch is about the distance between the edge of the coin to the top of Lincoln’s head. So, if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.
What does a tire warranty cover?
Tire manufacturer warranties cover manufacturer or material defects on tires up to a certain mileage point, anywhere from 20,000 miles to 100,000 miles depending on the tire.
How do tire warranties work?
There are several types of tire warranties – some that come standard with the tire and others that can be purchased when you buy the tires new.
Types of tire warranties and how they work.
Mileage/Tread Life Warranty - Mileage or tread life warranties are the most common type of tire warranty. If the tread on your tires wears out before they reach a certain mileage point, the manufacturer will replace the tires at a prorated amount in the form of a credit to put towards new tires from the same tire manufacturer. Keep in mind these warranties are usually only valid for the original owner within a set time – typically 6 years.
Workmanship & Materials Warranty – A workmanship and materials warranty covers defects in the manufacturing or materials used for the life of the tire. This includes broken belts, tread separation, cracks in the sidewall, or irregular wear within the tire. Typically, if the tire still has more than 75% of its original tread and you file a claim within a year of purchase, the manufacturer will replace it free of charge. After that, it will be a prorated amount.
Uniformity Warranty – Tire manufacturers maintain rigid quality control protocols, so this warranty is rarely encountered. Uniformity tire warranty covers a tire that was made out-of-round which will cause excessive vibrations or ride disturbance. Since this will be very noticeable from the beginning, most manufacturers will only cover the tire within the first 2/32nds of an inch of tread life.
Satisfaction Guarantee – Some manufacturers are now offering a satisfaction guarantee. This means you can buy and try out the tires and if for any reason you are unsatisfied with them during the specified time (typically up to 30 days), you can exchange the tires for a different set of tires from the same manufacturer. This guarantee is voided if the tires are damaged by a road hazard, or misused.
Tire Protection Plan – The Nationwide Tire Protection Plan is a road hazard warranty that is available to be purchased when you buy the tires, and it covers any damage caused by road hazards. This includes free flat repairs for the life of the tire and replacement tire coverage for three years. Read the blog: Is tire road hazard warranty worth it.
What voids a tire warranty?
Tire warranties can be voided if you don’t keep up on regular tire maintenance. If you don’t have proof that the tires were rotated and aligned regularly, the tire manufacturer may deny the warranty claim. Vandalism, off-roading, racing, and snow chain damage can also void your tire warranty.
How to get tires replaced under warranty. Here are a few tips to make sure your tires qualify for a warranty replacement if your tires wear out prematurely.
Shop for tires at Hilltop Tire Tire Service
If your tires have worn out prematurely, the tire experts at Hilltop Tire Service in Des Moines can handle any tire warranty claims for you. Shopping for tires can be overwhelming and we want to make this process as pain-free as possible. Safety is our number one priority so give us a call or stop by today to get a set of new or used tires for your ride!
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