How Tire Warranties Work
A tire warranty is the manufacturer’s promise that the tire was built correctly and with quality materials. If a tire shows problems that are the manufacturer’s fault (not road damage or lack of maintenance), the warranty may help repair or replace it.
Most modern tires are covered by a limited warranty that usually lasts a set number of years from the purchase date or until the tread is worn out — whichever comes first.
How Long Does a Tire Warranty Last?
Warranty length varies by brand and tire model, but many limited warranties last about 4–6 years from the date of purchase.
The warranty “start date” depends on how the tire was purchased:
- New vehicle: the date the vehicle is first delivered or registered.
- Replacement tire: the date shown on the tire purchase receipt.
If no documentation is available, the DOT code stamped into the tire's sidewall is used to determine its manufacturing date.
Warranty coverage also ends when tread depth reaches 2/32" (1.6 mm). At this point, the tire is legally worn out, and the tread is level with the built-in wear bars.
Treadwear / Mileage Warranties
Some tires include a treadwear or mileage warranty estimating how many miles the tire should reasonably last.
Keep in mind:
- Not all tires come with mileage guarantees.
- Tires installed as Original Equipment on new vehicles usually do not include a mileage warranty unless the manufacturer specifically adds it.
- Mileage warranties apply only to the original owner and original vehicle.
- Mileage warranties also expire with the normal limited warranty, typically around 4–6 years from purchase.
If a tire wears out sooner than the mileage listed, the manufacturer may offer a pro-rated credit toward replacement based on the percentage of mileage not received.
Ride Comfort & Uniformity Warranty
Small internal differences in new tires can sometimes cause a vibration or ride disturbance. Many manufacturers cover these issues early in the tire’s life with a uniformity warranty.
This coverage typically requires:
- Reporting the issue early in the tire’s life.
- Replacing the affected tire within the first 1/32" to 2/32" of treadwear or within the first year.
- Identifying the specific tire causing the issue — manufacturers do not accept claims that all four tires are defective at the same time.
Workmanship & Materials Warranty
This part of the warranty covers defects related to the manufacturing process or the materials used to build the tire.
Most brands follow a structure similar to this:
- During the tire’s early life (often the first year or first 25% of treadwear), the tire may be replaced free of charge other than installation costs.
- After that, replacement is usually pro-rated, giving credit for the unused portion of the tire’s life.
What Isn’t Covered
Most warranties exclude issues such as:
- Punctures or cuts from road hazards.
- Damage caused by running underinflated or overloaded.
- Uneven wear from misalignment or lack of tire rotation.
- Damage from racing, burnouts, or abuse.
How to Use Your Tire Warranty
If you believe your tire may qualify for warranty consideration, the usual steps include:
- Having the tire inspected by a qualified professional.
- Providing proof of purchase and mileage if needed.
- Allowing the shop to work with the manufacturer to determine coverage.
At Continental Home Center, we aim to help you understand tire warranties clearly so you get the most life and value from every set of tires you drive on.