Tyre tread

The outer face of the tyre in contact with the road.

Grooves and sipes channel water away while rubber blocks flex to grip; the compound sets the grip-versus-wear balance.

The sole pattern on a running shoe.

Uneven wear can point to alignment, pressure or suspension problems; low tread raises aquaplaning risk.

Inspect tread, age, pressure and damage rather than using appearance alone. Wheels and bearings are assessed for condition.

Inflation correction is small work; tire sets, forged wheels and damaged hubs can be much larger expenses.

BMW models using the specified wheel and tire combination; approved sizes vary by vehicle.