What condition causes the outer edges of tires to wear excessively?

What condition causes the outer edges of tires to wear excessively?

• A. Under-inflation
• B. Over-inflation
• C. Negative camber
• D. Positive caster

Answer: (A)

Under-inflation leads to excessive wear on the outer edges of tires because when the tire pressure is insufficient, the tire's footprint on the road is altered. The tire will bulge outward at the sidewalls, increasing the contact area on the outer edges while reducing the center contact area. As a result, the outer edges experience more friction and heat, leading to premature wear compared to the center tread. This uneven contact and increased wear on the outer edges can compromise tire life and vehicle handling. In contrast, over-inflation typically causes the center of the tire to wear more quickly, while negative camber can lead to uneven wear patterns on the inside edges of the tire. Positive caster affects steering stability and does not directly influence tire wear patterns in the same manner. Understanding the impact of tire pressure and alignment angles is crucial for maintaining proper tire health and optimizing vehicle performance.

Under-inflation leads to excessive wear on the outer edges of tires because when the tire pressure is insufficient, the tire's footprint on the road is altered. The tire will bulge outward at the sidewalls, increasing the contact area on the outer edges while reducing the center contact area. As a result, the outer edges experience more friction and heat, leading to premature wear compared to the center tread. This uneven contact and increased wear on the outer edges can compromise tire life and vehicle handling.

In contrast, over-inflation typically causes the center of the tire to wear more quickly, while negative camber can lead to uneven wear patterns on the inside edges of the tire. Positive caster affects steering stability and does not directly influence tire wear patterns in the same manner. Understanding the impact of tire pressure and alignment angles is crucial for maintaining proper tire health and optimizing vehicle performance.