Quick answer
Tyres should be replaced when the tread is worn down to the tread wear indicators or the legal minimum depth, or sooner if they show cracks, bulges, cuts or uneven wear. Many tyre makers also advise having tyres checked once they are about five years old and replacing them by around ten years, whatever the tread.
How long tyres last depends on how far and how you drive, road surfaces, correct pressure, wheel alignment and load, so there is no fixed mileage that applies to every car.
Step-by-step guidance
- Check the tread depth with a tread depth gauge or look for the tread wear indicator bars in the grooves.
- Look at the sidewalls and tread for cracks, bulges, cuts, exposed cords or objects stuck in the tyre.
- Find the four-digit date code on the sidewall, which shows the week and year the tyre was made.
- Check tyre pressure monthly, using the pressures on the placard in the door frame or the owner's manual.
- Ask a tyre fitter to inspect the tyres and check wheel alignment if wear is uneven.
What to check
- Tread depth across the whole width of the tyre
- Tyre age from the date code
- Uneven wear, which can point to alignment or pressure problems
- Condition of the spare wheel
Common mistakes to avoid
- Driving on tyres worn to or below the legal minimum
- Ignoring a sidewall bulge after hitting a pothole
- Fitting mismatched tyres on the same axle
- Forgetting to check the spare
Related nearby services
NearMe lists 1,550 tyre shops across South Africa, with the most in Gauteng (514), Western Cape (233) and KwaZulu-Natal (230). 97% include a phone number, so you can check before you go.
This guide gives general information only. Rules, fees and requirements can change, so confirm details with the provider or the relevant authority. NearMe is an independent directory, not the provider.
Frequently asked questions
What is the legal minimum tread depth in South Africa?
It is commonly given as 1 mm under the National Road Traffic Regulations, but many fitters advise replacing tyres well before that. Confirm the current rule with your licensing authority.
How do I read a tyre's age?
Look for the four-digit DOT code on the sidewall. The first two digits are the week and the last two are the year of manufacture.
Should I replace all four tyres at once?
Not always, but tyres on the same axle should match. Ask a tyre fitter for advice on your vehicle.