According to the recent article in Business Insider, we are observing one more negative aspect of autonomous cars – accelerated tire wear.
Autonomous cars tend to be built on the electric vehicle platform. Unfortunately, the immediate torque occurring with electric vehicles causes accelerated tire wear. So more frequent tire replacement will become the norm as autonomous electric vehicles become popular.
On the positive side, tire manufacturers are looking to build new sensors into the tires. Just like current tires have TPMS sensors that warn us if the tire is under-inflated, future tires will likely have sensors that will tell us when it's time to replace the tire.
In the meantime, if you have any doubts about your tires, or are not sure how to check if your tires are worn to the point that they need to be replaced, swing by the Castro Valley Tireworx shop on Park Way (behind the car wash). We will be happy to check the tires for you, and we will also top off the air if your tires are under-inflated.