Symptoms
- Inside edge of tread is balder than the rest
- Wear pattern is even side-to-side but worse on one edge
- Noticed after hitting a pothole or curb
- Steering feels slightly off
Likely causes
- CommonWheel alignment out of spec (camber or toe)Excess negative camber tips the top of the tire in, wearing the inside edge faster.
- PossibleWorn suspension componentsWorn ball joints or control arm bushings let the wheel lean, changing camber under load.
- PossibleBent suspension part from impactHitting a curb or deep pothole can bend a control arm or strut and throw off alignment.
What to do
- Check tread wear across the full width of each front tire by hand and eye.
- Note whether the wear is on the inner edge of one tire, both fronts, or all four.
- Check for any recent curb strikes or hard pothole hits.
- Have the alignment checked and adjusted at a shop with an alignment rack.
- Ask the shop to inspect suspension bushings and ball joints while checking alignment, since a bent part won't hold an alignment.
- Rotate tires regularly going forward to even out wear once the cause is fixed.
Tools and parts
- Tread depth gauge (optional)
Replacement tires if wear is severeSearch: “tire size for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
An alignment shop should diagnose this since it requires an alignment machine and inspection of suspension parts.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.