bfm

My front left tire is scalloping along a section a little less than 1/4 of the circumfrence. The right tire seems fine. Pressure seems OK. Tires have less than 1000 miles on them and were a set with rims. They are 225/50/16s on a 1.8t Avant with stock base suspension. Any ideas as to cause?

Eddie@Tirerack

Most Common Tire Wear Problems (typically speaking)

Wear On Both Edges: UNDER INFLATION
The worst enemy a tire can have is too little inflation pressure. Underinflation reduces treadlife through increased tread wear on the outside edges (or shoulders) of the tire. It also generates excessive heat that reduces tire durability. Finally, it reduces fuel economy through increased rolling resistance (soft tires make your vehicle work harder). Check your tires regularly for proper inflation.

Wear In Center: OVER INFLATION
When a tire is over inflated, the center of the tread bears most of the load and wears out faster than the outside edges. Uneven wear reduces the useful life of a tire. Check your tires regularly for proper inflation.

Cups or Dips in the tread: WORN PARTS
Cupping (also called dipping or scalloping) is most common on front tires, though rear tires can cup as well. It may be a sign that wheels are out of balance or that suspension or steering system parts are worn out.

Wear on one side or sawtooth edges: MISALIGNMENT
Abnormal tire wear may also be due to misalignment or mechanical problems. Do the edges of the tread take on a sawtooth or feathered appearance? Erratic scrubbing against the road causes this treadwear. The solution is toe-in or toe-out alignment correction.