How To Identify Uneven BMW Tire Wear

Checking for uneven tire wear should be a part of the routine maintenance that you perform on your BMW. This could be a symptom that the tires are either over- or under-inflated, that the alignment is off, that the suspension is off, that the wheels and tires are not balanced, or that there is a problem internally with the tire. When you’re behind the wheel, your well-being and safety could be affected by any one of these potential hazards.

Step 1: Perform a Visual Inspection of the Tires

Look at the tires as you go closer to the vehicle to see if there is anything unusual about the way they look. When you visually inspect the tread area of the tire, you will be able to determine whether there is more wear at each of the corners, either one edge or the other, more wear in the center, or peculiar wear signs such as isolated patches of wear that are in circular layouts. This is also an effective method for finding rocks that have been embedded into the tread, in addition to any nails that you may have accidentally driven over.

Step 2: Rub Your Hand in a Circular Motion Across the Surface of the Tread

If you have detected any anomalies, you may check if the tire wear is uneven by stroking your hand across the surface in the direction that the tread is facing. Both your eyes and your body will be able to confirm this. As soon as you notice that one of your tires has worn in an uneven pattern, it is important to check the other tires for the same issue. For example, if you noticed circular lines of wear on one front tire, it is highly likely that the other one will have the same issue. If you find these patterns on both tires, it is extremely likely that you will have to replace both tires. It could be to a smaller or larger amount, but it could be an indication that there is a problem with the suspension, such as worn shocks or struts.

Step 3: Performing the Tire Print Inspection

Find a spot that is clean and smooth, preferably one that is made of cement. Apply as much moisture to the tire treads as you can using a damp towel or sponge. Examine the tire tracks that have been left behind on the ground while you carefully drive the car forward roughly one car length. The print will show if the tires have worn evenly or unevenly. A normal print would only display continuous tread patterns that are even and would not have any distortions or interruptions in them. If your print reveals a pattern called a “blank bar” that disrupts the tread and covers the breadth of the tire, then it’s possible that you need to get new tires. This particular pattern serves as an indication of the tread’s built-in wear indicator, which may be seen here.

Your tires will have a longer lifespan and function more effectively if you are vigilant and make a habit of doing a few simple tests on a regular basis. Contact our service center for more information or you can order your new spare tire here!