When it comes time to buy tires, tread life is an important consideration. Manufacturers’ claims vary anywhere from from 48,000 to 160,000 kilometres. Consumer Reports tested the tread life of 47 tires — two samples of each — to check those claims.

A convoy of trucks drove each tire 25,000 kilometres. The tread was measured at regular intervals to project how long the tires would last. Tire life also depends on the vehicle and proper maintenance. And how and where you drive makes a difference. But Consumer Reports’ auto editor Mark Rechtin says, “Our mileage projections are a good way to compare tread wear.”

The tests showed that some tire mileage claims are overly optimistic. The warranty on the Kumho Solus TA11 is 120,000 kilometres, but Consumer Reports projects 88,000. And the warranty on the Continental TrueContact tires is 145,000, but Consumer Reports projects 95,000. In both cases, Consumer Reports says the projected tread wear is still quite good.

Far worse was the Nokian Entyre 2.0. Its warranty is 128,000 kilometres; Consumer Reports projects just 56,000.

Some tires last much longer. Michelin was a standout. The three models tested met or exceeded their mileage warranty and had a projected tread life of 128,000 kilometres or more.

The longest-lasting tires in Consumer Reports’ tests were the Pirelli P4 Four Seasons Plus. The manufacturer claims 145,000 kilometres, and Consumer Reports estimates they will last 160,000. 

Consumer Reports says don’t expect to get all of your money back if your tires wear out before the mileage warranty. You’ll only get a credit for the miles the tire didn’t last. And it’s only good toward the retail price or dealer’s retail price for an identical tire or a comparable one from the same manufacturer. Discounts, which are common, could make that credit worthless. 

The testing comes just as winter tire regulations go into effect in B.C. October 1st is the deadline to install winter or all-weather tires for travel on most B.C. highways including Highway 99 to Squamish, Whistler and beyond. Commercial trucks are also required to carry chains. Traveling without the proper tires or chains could mean a fine or a police order to turn around and get off the road.