A tyre wear pattern is a clue, not a diagnosis. Compare the centre, both shoulders and several positions around each tyre, then check pressure and mechanical condition.
Read the common patterns
Greater centre wear can be associated with pressure or loading conditions. Wear on both shoulders can accompany underinflation. One-sided wear or feathered edges can suggest alignment issues. Repeated scallops or cups can involve damping, balance or other mechanical faults. A local flat area may follow a skid or prolonged parking.
Record before repairing
Note tyre position, cold pressure, tread measurements and recent impacts or rotation. Photograph the pattern where safe. A workshop should inspect the cause and decide whether the tyre is still serviceable; rotating tyres does not repair an existing defect.
Damage overrides the pattern
Bulges, exposed cords, deep cuts or rapid pressure loss need prompt professional assessment and may make driving unsafe. Correcting alignment cannot restore worn-away rubber. Use the vehicle’s pressure placard and tyre specification rather than the maximum pressure on the sidewall.
