Breaking in new tires

When you put new tires on your vehicle, they need a short break-in period to reach optimal performance. Read how to break in new tires.

New tires are similar to a new pair of high-performance shoes—they take a little time to feel completely right. With tires, the first few hundred kilometers are the break-in period, after which the tires have properly settled in. Drivers should be aware of this concept because breaking in new tires affects road safety. When replacing tires, a wheel alignment check and adjustment after is highly recommended with new tires to ensure optimal performance and safety. 

What does breaking in tires mean

Generally, a tire break-in takes about 500-800 kilometers of careful driving. The purpose of breaking in tires is to reach their optimal performance and ensure they are safe to drive. Although brand-new tires have more tread depth, they may initially seem less responsive until they have been properly broken in. For instance, new tires may exhibit a slight “tread squirm” as you steer. This temporary adjustment is normal and will subside after the first few hundred miles.

One factor contributing to the initial feel of new tires is the release lubricant applied during the tire manufacturing process. The purpose of the release lubricant is to prevent the tires from getting stuck to their molds. Some of the lubricant stays on the surface of your tires, reducing traction until it is worn away. At least 480 kilometers of easy acceleration, cornering and braking should allow the mold release lubricant to wear off, allowing the other tire components to begin working together.

Additionally, the tires may still contain antioxidants, which are used to prevent the newly manufactured tire and its material from getting damage. Both take their time to wear off as the tires are in use.

It’s especially important to break in studded tires. Ensuring that the studs are well established within the tire during the break-in period solidifies their position in the tire, and helps maintain their stability and reliability over the tire’s lifetime.

How to break in new tires

It takes time for new tires to reach their maximum performance. Here are some expert tips to follow while breaking in new tires:

• Avoid sudden braking and acceleration. New tires do not yet offer optimal traction. During the break-in period, avoid rapid acceleration or harsh braking and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you while your new tires adjust.
• Pay attention to your driving speed. While safe driving is key at all times, be especially mindful of your speed while breaking in new tires.
• Check your tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential for safety and performance. Regularly monitor and adjust your tire pressure as needed during their break-in phase to prolong the service life of your tires.
• Retorque lug nuts. After installing new tires, confirm that your lug nuts remain secure. Check and retorque them after about 50–100 kilometers of driving to ensure they haven’t loosened as the tires settle.