🚗 Why Are My Tires Wearing on the Outside? (And What to Do About It)
When you glance at your tires and notice the outside edges are more worn than the rest, it’s not just a weird fluke—it’s your car trying to tell you something important. Uneven tire wear, especially on the outer edges, is one of the most common problems we see at Wayside Garage, and it's usually a sign that something needs fixing ASAP.
🔍 What Causes Outside Tire Wear?
Here are the most common reasons your tires are wearing on the outside:
Misaligned wheels – The #1 culprit. If your wheels aren’t aligned properly, your tires aren’t hitting the road evenly.
Worn suspension parts – Components like control arm bushings or ball joints affect alignment and tire contact.
Underinflated tires – Too little air pressure causes the tire to bulge, wearing the outer edges faster.
Aggressive cornering – Taking turns too quickly can put extra pressure on the outside of your tires.
🧰 How to Fix Outside Tire Wear
Catching this early can save your tires and your wallet. Here's what we recommend:
✅ 1. Schedule a Wheel Alignment
Alignment is not just about steering straight—it directly impacts how your tires wear. A quick adjustment can make a big difference in lifespan and fuel economy.
✅ 2. Inspect Suspension Components
Worn control arm bushings, tie rods, or ball joints can throw off your alignment and cause uneven wear. We’ll check these during your service.
✅ 3. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Check your tire pressure monthly—low air can lead to more than just uneven wear, it’s also a safety hazard.
✅ 4. Rotate Your Tires Regularly
Rotating tires every 5,000–7,500 miles helps distribute wear evenly. It’s a key part of Wayside Garage’s Maintenance Plan.
🚨 Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Tire Wear
Ignoring outside tire wear can lead to:
Unsafe driving conditions (especially in rain)
Decreased fuel efficiency
Shortened tire life
Bigger suspension issues down the road
If you're seeing this type of wear, it's best to let our certified technicians take a look before it turns into a more expensive fix.
🛠️ Maintenance Plan Tip from Wayside Garage
Tire wear and alignment are both checked during our Annual Comprehensive Inspection included in the Wayside Maintenance Plan. Staying on track with regular inspections helps catch these issues before they become costly.
📅 Time to Get Aligned?
If you’re seeing wear on the outside of your tires, don’t wait—schedule an alignment and inspection today with the pros at Wayside Garage. We’ll help extend the life of your tires and keep your car running safely.