What is the effect of proper tire inflation on tire wear?

Maintaining proper tire inflation is crucial for achieving even tire wear. When tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, the contact patch—the area of the tire that makes contact with the road—is evenly distributed. This leads to a balanced wear pattern across the entire surface of the tire, minimizing the risk of uneven wear that can result from over-inflated or under-inflated tires.

When a tire is over-inflated, the center of the tread often wears more quickly, while under-inflation can cause excessive wear on the edges. This uneven wear not only shortens the lifespan of the tires but can also negatively impact vehicle handling, fuel efficiency, and safety. Proper inflation helps prevent these issues by ensuring the tire operates within its designed specification, promoting longevity and better performance.

In contrast, simply adjusting space in the tire tread or eliminating the need for alignment checks does not directly relate to the impact of tire inflation on wear, nor do they address the broader issue of maintaining an even contact patch and optimal tire performance.