Tire Degradation Calculator
The BuildLockr tire degradation calculator estimates the rate of tire wear during track sessions. Use this tool to calculate grip loss, heat cycle effects, and performance drop-off over consecutive laps. Whether you are setting up an endurance race strategy or optimizing tire pressures for track days, this tire wear estimator provides critical guidance. This helps racing drivers manage their tires, optimize stint lengths, and maximize traction throughout a race event.
Calculation Mode
Choose between simulation-based or real-world temperature-based degradation modeling.
Tire Degradation (Simulation)
D = n × r × tf × sf
Where: D = degradation % n = lap count r = degradation rate (%/lap) tf = temperature factor sf = driving style factor
Scratchpad / Quick Notes
* Note: This scratchpad is temporary and will be cleared when you leave or refresh the page.
Comparison Log & Run History
No calculations logged yet.
Perform a calculation and click "Log Current Run" to save it for side-by-side comparison.
* Runs are stored temporarily in your active session and will be cleared when you leave this page.
Quick-Swap Unit Converter
Understanding Race Tire Wear and Grip Loss
Typical Degradation Rates:
- • Soft Compounds: 1.5-3.0% per lap
- • Medium Compounds: 0.8-1.5% per lap
- • Hard Compounds: 0.3-0.8% per lap
- • Wet Tires: 2.0-4.0% per lap
- • Endurance Tires: 0.2-0.5% per lap
Softer compounds provide more grip but degrade faster.
Common Tire Degradation Questions
What factors cause the fastest tire degradation?
Overheating, improper alignment (toe/camber), aggressive sliding, rough track surfaces, and heavy vehicle weight.
How do you identify tire heat cycling?
Heat cycled tires become hard and lose grip even if they have tread depth remaining, often showing a blueish tint on the tread surface.
How can you reduce tire wear on track?
Smooth driving inputs, correct tire pressure settings, proper suspension alignment, and taking cool-down laps.