Electric vehicle owners are replacing tires at a significantly faster rate than drivers of gasoline-powered cars, according to a new study. The findings, released January 29, 2026, highlight a growing cost of EV ownership as the automotive industry transitions toward electrification.
The Kwik Fit Maintenance Index 2025, conducted by the UK’s largest automotive maintenance company, found that the Tesla Model 3 is the vehicle requiring the most frequent tire replacements annually. The Model 3 leads the rankings of ten cars with the highest tire replacement rates, topping the charts in 54 areas across Great Britain – nearly a third of the country.
The study analyzed data from over two million vehicles serviced annually at more than 600 Kwik Fit centers. Researchers aimed to identify which vehicles experience the fastest tire wear and, require more frequent replacements. The Citroën Berlingo took second place in the rankings (24 regions), followed by the Tesla Model Y in third (16 regions), with models like the Mercedes CLA, Volvo XC40, and BMW Series 4 as well appearing in the top ten.
On average, a conventional internal combustion engine vehicle can travel between 65,000 km and 80,000 km before needing new tires. Electric vehicles typically require replacements between 40,000 km and 55,000 km, while high-performance EVs may need new tires as frequently as every 25,000 km to 40,000 km. The study did not include a comparison with hybrid vehicles.
What’s driving the increased tire wear in EVs?
EV tires are specifically designed for electric vehicles, resulting in a cost premium of 20% to 30%. This is due to the need for tires that can support greater weight, reduce noise, optimize range, and provide enhanced resistance and lateral stiffness.
The study revealed that tire wear is “15% to 30% faster” in EVs compared to gasoline cars. This is attributed to the heavier battery weight and the instant torque delivered by electric motors, which puts greater stress on the tires. Elliott Smith, a Kwik Fit specialist, confirmed this in an interview with Revista Carros, stating that “one of the reasons for the faster tire wear is that the instant torque of electric cars, combined with their higher weight, puts more pressure on the tires. Many drivers take advantage of the quick acceleration, which further increases wear.”
While the study was conducted in the United Kingdom, the growing global adoption of electric vehicles makes these findings relevant to EV drivers worldwide. A Tesla 3, for example, can weigh between 1761 and 1824 kg depending on the version and equipment. According to the Automóvel Clube de Portugal (ACP), EVs can be up to 300 kg heavier than comparable diesel or gasoline vehicles.
The increased weight also has implications for waste management. Pedro Carteiro, from the Associação Terrestre Sustentável, noted that ZERO had previously warned that Portugal needs a vehicle tax system that directly penalizes heavier vehicles, as more frequent tire replacements generate more waste. The future Circular Economy Law, planned for 2026, could significantly change how end-of-life tires are handled in the European Union.
Collision repairs on EVs also tend to be more expensive, averaging 20% higher due to advanced sensors and the specialized labor required for battery inspections. Several studies also highlight the importance of preventative inspections and the potential long-term cost of battery replacement.
However, there are offsetting benefits. EVs have fewer moving parts, eliminating the need for oil changes, spark plug replacements, fuel filters, and exhaust systems. According to Consumer Reports, owners of EVs and plug-in hybrids pay approximately 50% less for general maintenance and repairs than owners of internal combustion engine vehicles. The same source also states that brakes last two to three times longer, as regenerative braking can manage between 70% and 90% of deceleration, reducing wear and extending pad life. However, underutilization of regenerative braking can lead to corrosion or oxidation of mechanical components. As the saying goes, there are pros and cons, and it’s important to do the math to determine the overall cost of ownership.
How to extend tire life?
Several factors contribute to premature tire wear and environmental pollution. To avoid turning your vehicle into a “tire consumer,” Pedro Carteiro, from ZERO, offers the following recommendations:
- Opt for lighter vehicle models whenever possible,
- Maintain proper tire pressure (checked monthly) as recommended by the manufacturer,
- Avoid overloading the vehicle, as excess weight increases tire pressure,
- Rotate tires every 10,000 km, or as recommended by the manufacturer (e.g., swapping front tires to the rear axle, maintaining side position),
- Regularly check wheel alignment,
- Avoid driving over potholes, rocks, and other road hazards, and avoid mounting curbs forcefully,
- Choose tires from reputable brands with proven quality,
- Avoid “rapid accelerations!”
