Audi Q3: Tire wear and damage

Fig. 155 Tire profile: treadwear indicator

Tire wear

Check the tires regularly for wear.

• Inflation pressure that is too low or high can increase tire wear considerably.
• Driving quickly through curves, rapid acceleration, and heavy braking increase tire wear.
• Have an authorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility check the wheel alignment if there is unusual wear.
• Have the wheels rebalanced if an imbalance is causing noticeable vibration in the steering wheel.

  If you do not, the tires and other vehicle components could wear more quickly.

Treadwear indicator

Original equipment tires contain treadwear indicators in the tread pattern, which are bars that are 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) high and are spaced evenly around the tire perpendicular to the running direction fig. 155. The letters "TWI" or triangles on the tire sidewall indicate the location of the treadwear indicators.

The tires have reached the minimum tread depth¹⁾ when they have worn down to the treadwear indicators. Replace the tires with new ones.

¹⁾ Obey any applicable regulations in the country where the vehicle is being operated.

Tire rotation

Rotating the tires regularly is recommended to ensure the tires wear evenly. To rotate the tires, install the tires from the rear axle on the front axle and vice versa.

This will allow the tires to have approximately the same length of service life.

For unidirectional tires, make sure the tires are installed according to the running direction indicated on the tire sidewall.

Hidden damage

Damage to tires and rims can often occur in locations that are hidden. Unusual vibrations in the vehicle or pulling to one side may indicate that there is tire damage.

Reduce your speed immediately.

Check the tires for damage. If no damage is visible from the out-side, drive slowly and carefully to the nearest authorized Audi dealer or authorized Audi Service Facility to have the vehicle inspected.

WARNING

Tread that has worn too low or uneven tread depths on the tires can reduce driving safety.

This can increase the risk of an accident because it has a negative effect on handling, driving through curves, and braking, and because it increases the risk of hydroplaning when driving through deep puddles.

READ NEXT: