Tire maintenance basics

{{whyLabel}}: Rubber degrades over time regardless of use, increasing the risk of blowouts.

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• Locate the 'DOT' string on the tire sidewall.
• Find the last 4 digits (e.g., 1223).
• The first two digits are the week (12th week), and the last two are the year (2023).
• Replace tires older than 6 years (recommended) or 10 years (maximum).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: The manufacturing date of all four tires is known.

{{whyLabel}}: Adequate tread is vital for water displacement and preventing aquaplaning.

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• Use a depth gauge or a 2-Euro coin (the silver rim is approx. 4mm).
• Measure in the center and outer grooves.
• Ensure at least 3mm for summer tires and 4mm for winter tires for optimal safety.
• Note that 1.6mm is the absolute legal minimum in most regions.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Tread depth for all tires is measured and recorded.

{{whyLabel}}: Structural defects like bulges or deep cracks can lead to sudden tire failure.

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• Run your hand along the sidewall to feel for 'bubbles' or bulges.
• Look for 'dry rot' (fine cracks in the rubber) caused by UV exposure.
• Check for deep cuts that expose the internal metal or fabric cords.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All tires are visually cleared of structural defects.

{{whyLabel}}: Uneven wear indicates mechanical issues like poor alignment or suspension problems.

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• Compare the inner and outer edges of the tread.
• Look for 'feathering' (edges feel sharp in one direction) or 'cupping' (scalloped dips).
• If wear is uneven, schedule a wheel alignment immediately.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Wear patterns are analyzed for alignment issues.

{{whyLabel}}: As of late 2024/2025, M+S tires without the Alpine symbol are no longer legally sufficient for winter conditions in many European countries.

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• Look for the 'Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake' (3PMSF) icon on the sidewall.
• Ensure all-season or winter tires carry this specific symbol.
• Avoid driving in snow/ice if only 'M+S' is present without the snowflake.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Winter legality of current tires is confirmed.

{{whyLabel}}: Summer tires lose grip below 7°C (45°F), while winter tires wear excessively in heat.

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• Plan to switch to winter tires in October (O).
• Plan to switch back to summer tires around Easter (O - Ostern).
• Book appointments 4 weeks in advance to avoid the seasonal rush.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Seasonal change dates are marked in the calendar.

{{whyLabel}}: Using incorrect tire sizes can void insurance and cause failure during technical inspections (TÜV).

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• Locate your Certificate of Conformity (COC) or vehicle registration document.
• Compare the allowed dimensions (e.g., 205/55 R16 91V) with the tires currently mounted.
• Ensure the load index and speed rating meet or exceed the requirements.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Tire specifications are verified against official documents.

{{whyLabel}}: You need the exact size to ensure the tire fits the rim and the car's wheel well.

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• Read the string on your current tire: [Width]/[Aspect Ratio] [Construction] [Rim Diameter].
• Example: 225/45 R17.
• Note the Load Index (number) and Speed Rating (letter) at the end.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Full tire spec string is written down.

{{whyLabel}}: Modern tire labels provide objective data on fuel economy, wet braking, and noise.

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• Look for the EU Tire Label (or equivalent).
• Prioritize 'A' or 'B' ratings for Wet Grip to ensure safety in rain.
• Consider the external rolling noise (decibel value) for driving comfort.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: A tire model is selected based on performance data.

{{whyLabel}}: Mixing different brands or tread patterns on the same axle can destabilize the vehicle.

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• Order tires from a reputable dealer.
• Ensure all four tires are the same model and have similar DOT dates.
• Opt for generic high-quality brands if premium options are too expensive.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: New tires are ordered or purchased.

{{whyLabel}}: Improperly balanced tires cause vibrations that damage the suspension and steering.

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• Choose a shop with a dynamic balancing machine.
• Request new valves (or TPMS sensor service) during installation.
• Ensure the shop uses a torque wrench for final tightening.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Appointment is booked or installation is complete.

{{whyLabel}}: Correct pressure ensures optimal contact with the road and prevents overheating.

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• Find the pressure placard on the driver's door frame or inside the fuel cap.
• Check pressure when tires are 'cold' (driven less than 3km).
• Adjust for 'loaded' vs. 'unloaded' conditions if carrying heavy cargo.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All four tires (and spare) are at the correct PSI/Bar.

{{whyLabel}}: Bolts can settle after a tire change, potentially loosening over time.

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• Use a torque wrench set to your vehicle's specific Nm (usually 110-140 Nm).
• Tighten in a 'star' or 'cross' pattern.
• Do not over-tighten, as this can warp the brake rotors.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: All wheel bolts are verified as secure.

{{whyLabel}}: Front and rear tires wear at different rates; rotation equalizes this wear.

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• Move front tires to the back and vice versa.
• Follow the pattern in your owner's manual (e.g., cross-rotation for non-directional tires).
• Note: Directional tires (marked with an arrow) can only be swapped front-to-back on the same side.

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Tires are rotated and positions recorded.

{{whyLabel}}: Heat and sunlight accelerate rubber aging and cracking.

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• Clean tires with water to remove road salt and brake dust.
• Store tires on rims either hanging or stacked.
• Store tires without rims standing upright and rotate them monthly.
• Use a basement or garage, away from electric motors (which produce ozone).

{{doneWhenLabel}}: Off-season tires are safely stored.