Clear Signs Your Used Tyres Need Replacing – Stay Safe on the Road

Second hand tyres are a smart choice for many car owners—affordable, sustainable, and widely available. But like all tyres, they don’t last forever. Whether you've purchased used tyres recently or have been driving on them for a while, knowing when to replace them is critical for your safety and your vehicle’s performance.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to spot the most common signs of wear and tear so you can act before problems arise.

Why It’s Important to Monitor Second Hand Tyres

Unlike brand-new tyres, second hand tyres have already been through a life cycle. While they can still offer reliable performance, their remaining tread, structural integrity, and overall age may vary greatly.

Regular tyre inspections are essential—not just for longevity but to prevent dangerous tyre damage, reduced grip, and unexpected blowouts.

1. Tread Wear: The First Sign of Trouble

Tread depth is a critical factor in tyre safety. In Australia, the legal minimum is 1.6mm, but for optimal performance—especially in wet conditions—you’ll want more than that.

Signs to look for:

• Shallow tread across the surface
  
  

• Bald spots or smooth patches
  
  

• Inner or outer tread worn more than the centre
  
  

👉 Quick Tip: Use a tread depth gauge or the edge of a 20-cent coin to check. If the tread doesn’t reach the coin’s outer ring, your tyres may be unsafe.

2. Cracks, Cuts, and Bulges in the Sidewall

The sidewall of a tyre supports the vehicle’s load and absorbs road shock. If you're using second hand tyres, this area should be checked closely during every tyre servicing session.

Warning signs:

• Visible cuts or cracks in the rubber
  
  

• Bulges or bubbles along the sidewall
  
  

• Threads or cords exposed
  
  

These are signs of structural damage and indicate your tyres may be at high risk of failure.

3. Uneven Wear Patterns

Misaligned wheels, unbalanced tyres, or improper inflation can all cause uneven wear—and it’s common in used tyres.

Check for:

• Feathering (tread worn on one side)
  
  

• Cupping (wavy wear patterns)
  
  

• One tyre wearing faster than the others
  
  

If you notice any of these, visit a tyre shop for professional alignment and inspection. Ignoring this could shorten the life of your tyres and compromise handling.

4. Vibrations While Driving

Excessive vibration can be a sign of worn tyres, tyre imbalance, or internal separation in the rubber layers. While minor vibration is normal, consistent shaking—especially at high speeds—means it's time for a tyre inspection.

With second hand tyres, these internal issues may not be visible to the eye, so a technician should check them thoroughly during a rotation or balance.

5. Tyre Age: Not Just About Tread

Even if a used tyre looks fine, it may be too old to function safely. Tyre rubber hardens and cracks with age, increasing the risk of failure—even with decent tread left.

How to check tyre age:
Look for the DOT code on the tyre’s sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture. For example, "2019" means the 20th week of 2019. Most experts recommend replacing tyres after 6–7 years, regardless of use.

6. Poor Braking or Handling

If your vehicle takes longer to stop or feels unstable when turning, your second hand tyres could be the culprit. Worn tread reduces traction, especially on wet or gravel roads.

Don’t wait until your tyres fail during an emergency stop. Book a tyre servicing check and let a professional assess their roadworthiness.

7. Exposed Cords or Steel Belts

This is a severe safety hazard. If you notice any threads, wires, or steel cords showing through the rubber, your tyre is far beyond safe usage and must be replaced immediately.

Such extreme tyre damage often leads to blowouts and should never be ignored—especially on highways or long-distance drives.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for a Blowout

Second hand tyres offer excellent value, but they require more attention than new ones. Regular self-checks and professional tyre inspections will extend their lifespan and keep you safe on the road.

Replace your used tyres if:

• Tread depth is below 2mm
  
  

• There are visible sidewall defects
  
  

• Age exceeds 6 years
  
  

• Handling or braking performance declines
  
  

• You notice any cords, bubbles, or vibrations