Breaking In New Tyres: What You Need to Know

New tyres don’t reach peak performance the moment they’re fitted. Just like a new pair of shoes, they need a short running-in period to settle and perform at their best. Understanding this process — and how to drive during it — helps you stay safe and get the most life out of your tyres.

Why New Tyres Feel Different

When you first drive on new tyres, you might notice changes in grip, handling, or responsiveness. This is perfectly normal — and here’s why:

1. Manufacturing Lubricants

Tyres are made using release lubricants that help remove them from their moulds.
A thin residue can remain on the tread surface, slightly reducing traction until it wears away — usually within the first few hundred miles.

2. Protective Antioxidants

Manufacturers apply antioxidants to protect the rubber from heat, oxygen, and sunlight. These coatings can make the tyres feel a bit slick at first.

3. Deep Tread Depth

Brand-new tyres have maximum tread depth. This fresh rubber feels stiffer and thicker than your worn-down set, creating a slight “cushioning” effect on the road — a phenomenon known as tread squirm.

What Is “Tread Squirm”?

Tread squirm is the small, flexible movement you might feel through the steering wheel when driving with new tyres.
It’s caused by the rubber between the tread surface and the tyre carcass flexing more than usual.

• Slick tyres (no tread) = minimal squirm.

• Snow tyres (deep tread) = more squirm.

As the tyres wear slightly and the surface roughens, this sensation fades, and your tyres reach their full gripping and handling potential.

How to Break In New Tyres

For the first 500 miles (800 km), take it easy. This gives the tyres time to settle, remove surface residues, and adapt to real driving conditions.

✅ Do:

• Drive smoothly and at moderate speeds.

• Accelerate and brake gently.

• Leave extra space between you and the car in front — braking distances may be longer at first.

• Stick to dry roads where possible.

🚫 Don’t:

• Slam on the brakes.

• Accelerate sharply or drive aggressively.

• Corner at high speeds.

These precautions also help the tyre’s mounting lubricant (used during fitting) set properly, preventing slippage between the tyre and rim.

Adjusting to the New Feel

Even if you’ve replaced your tyres with the same model, you may still notice a difference in how your car feels.
Old tyres with worn tread tend to respond faster — there’s less rubber flexing between your car and the road. New tyres feel softer and less direct at first, but once broken in, they deliver better grip, comfort, and control.

This adjustment period isn’t just for your tyres — it’s for you as a driver, too.

After the Break-In: Keep Up the Care

Once your tyres have settled, maintaining them properly will help ensure long-term safety and performance.
Make tyre checks a regular habit:

• Tread depth: Replace before reaching the legal minimum.

• Tyre pressure: Check at least once a month when tyres are cold.

• Visual inspection: Look for cuts, bulges, or uneven wear.

Proper care means longer tyre life, better fuel efficiency, and a smoother, safer drive.

Key Takeaways

✅ New tyres need about 500 miles of gentle driving to perform optimally.
✅ Manufacturing residues and deep tread can reduce traction at first.
✅ Avoid aggressive braking and acceleration during the running-in period.
✅ After break-in, maintain proper pressure and check tread regularly.

Final Thoughts

Breaking in your tyres isn’t about going slow — it’s about letting your tyres reach their full potential.
With a bit of patience and regular care, your new tyres will provide the grip, comfort, and confidence you expect for many miles ahead.