Do New Tires Need To Be Broken In?

When we research topics to discuss in the Tire Agent blog, sometimes we're surprised by the questions we discover. Take this one: Do new tires need to be "broken in"? Short answer: No. Tires aren't like shoes. They don't need to be "broken in" but there are some things you should know when you replace your tires.

In this post, we discuss new tires and address potential misconceptions about new tires and their "break-in periods". No scientific evidence supports the idea that new tires need to be broken in. However, you do want to drive carefully for a while after new tires are installed. There are also some things you want to watch, listen and feel for after you get new tires. Here's what and why.

What is Considered a Reasonable Break-in Period for Tires?

New tires don't necessarily need to be "broken in," but driving carefully for the first 100 miles or so is recommended. This allows the tires to adjust to your vehicle and helps to distribute tire mold release agents used in the manufacturing process evenly on the tread surface.

During this time, avoid sudden acceleration, hard braking, and high-speed driving to extend the life of the tires and ensure they perform to their full potential. By following these guidelines, you can help extend the life of your tires and ensure they perform to their full potential.

Take note of whether you sense new tire vibrations at high speeds (70 mph). New tires vibrating could be a sign that they weren't balanced properly when they were installed. 

Is There a New Tire Break-in Procedure?

There is no universally agreed upon new tire break-in procedure. However, tire manufacturers usually provide guidelines on how to handle new tires.

These guidelines may vary between brands and types of tires, but common recommendations include avoiding high speeds and excessive braking for the first 100 miles and gradually increasing speed and load on the tires over time.

Following the manufacturer's recommendations for best performance and safety is essential.

What Should You Do When You Get New Tires?

Firstly, it's important to properly inflate your tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires can cause uneven wear and affect your vehicle's handling.

Secondly, it's critical to have your wheels balanced and aligned. This will ensure that your vehicle drives smoothly and prevent any vibration in the steering wheel.

Thirdly, when you have your tires installed, make sure the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is working and calibrated properly.    

Are New Tires Supposed to be Slippery?

Fresh tires may feel a bit slippery or have a slightly different handling feel compared to your old tires. This is normal and should not be a cause for concern. If your car feels like the new tires are slipping, or new tires feel like you're driving on ice, it's best to get your vehicle to your auto shop to ensure the tires were installed properly. 

Also known as tire squirm, this feeling of slipping or "driving on ice" is more common on worn tires; as the tread wears down, the rubber loses its grip. Sometimes overinflated tires will produce a slipping feel on braking.

With new tires, if you experience tire squirm, it could be because you're not used to the type of tire you're driving on. It could also be the rubber compound is softer, designed to grip, and therefore it feels more like a rubber band is attached to your driveshaft. The first thing to do is contact your tire installer, describe the feeling and ask, "Is this normal?" 

As you continue to drive on your new tires, the rubber will start to wear and form a grip pattern specific to your driving style and the road conditions.

What Should You Do If New Tires Ride Rough or Bumpy?

If your new tires are riding rough or bumpy, there could be a few reasons for this. The first thing to check is tire pressure. The rough ride could be due to under-inflated tires.

Another cause could be an alignment issue. Or, it could be due to a problem with your suspension or vehicle frame.

What should you do if your car shakes after getting new tires?

If your car begins to shake or vibrate after getting new tires, it could be due to a few issues:

• Improper tire balance: The tires may not have been properly balanced during installation. This can cause the car to shake or vibrate, especially at higher speeds.
• Bent rim: The rims of your wheels may be bent or damaged, causing the tires to sit unevenly on the wheels.
• Suspension problems: The shaking could also result from issues with the car's suspension system, such as worn-out shocks or struts.

If you're experiencing vibration after getting new tires, it's best to take your car back to the shop where you had the tires installed. They can inspect the tires, rims, and suspension to determine the source of the problem and make adjustments.

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