Replace Tires on Your 2020 Mazda CX-3 Sport
Replace the tires on your 2020 Mazda CX-3 Sport every 4 to 6 years from the tire’s manufacture date or sooner when tread depth reaches 2/32 inch. Many CX-3 owners get 40,000 to 60,000 miles from a set. They rotate tires often and keep pressure right.
Your CX-3 Sport runs on 215/60R16 tires. New all-season tires start with 10/32 to 11/32 inch of tread. Most states set the legal limit at 2/32 inch. Grip drops fast below that, above all in rain. Replace at 4/32 inch for better wet traction. Aim for 5/32 inch if you drive in snow.
Check tire age on the sidewall. Look for the four-digit DOT code, like 1520 for week 15 of 2020. Heat and sun harden rubber over time. Tires over 6 years old crack even with good tread. Replace right away if you spot sidewall cracks, bulges, or bubbles.
Other signs mean replace sooner. Vibration or pulling points to misalignment or suspension problems. Fast air loss boosts blowout risk. After a pothole or curb hit, check for shakes and have a shop inspect the tire and wheel.
| Warning Sign | What It Means | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Tread at 2/32 inch or less | Low grip, high hydroplane risk | Replace now |
| Tread at 4/32 inch in rain | Longer wet stops | Replace soon |
| Cracks, bulges, or bubbles | Structural damage | Replace now |
| Age 6 years or more | Rubber fatigue | Replace soon |
| Vibration or pulling | Belt shift or misalignment | Inspect and replace if needed |
Good care extends tire life. Rotate every 5,000 to 8,000 miles for even wear. Check pressure monthly on cold tires. Use the PSI number from your driver door jamb. Set all four tires to that level. Get alignments yearly to stop edge wear.
Winter salt and potholes wear tires faster. Check tread and sidewalls more in cold months. Look for bubbles and bent rims after hard hits.
Steps You Can Take Today
- Run the penny test for 2/32 inch: Lincoln's head fully shows. Use quarter test for 4/32 inch: Washington's head shows.
- Find DOT code and note the oldest tire date.
- Set pressure to door jamb PSI. Check monthly and before trips.
- Rotate at each oil change, about every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
- Book alignment for uneven wear or pulling.
- Replace in sets of four or pairs on the same axle for even handling.
Plan $600 to $900 for four quality all-season tires. Top tires cut wet stopping by car lengths.
Sidekick tracks your tire age and mileage. It reminds you before tread or time runs out. (512 words)