Maintaining the safety and longevity of your vehicle’s tyres is essential not only for a smooth driving experience but also for the safety of you, your passengers, and other road users. Proper care of your tyres will help them last as long as their warranty claims, saving you money and ensuring safer travel. Below are the top seven tips for tyre safety that every driver should follow.
Tyre Safety Tip 1 – Use a Reliable Tyre Gauge
Never rely on the tyre gauges at service stations, as they can often be inaccurate due to frequent use or poor maintenance. Instead, invest in a simple, reliable tyre gauge, such as the “pencil style” gauges available at automotive stores. Check your owner’s manual or ask your car dealership for recommendations on the best type of tyre gauge to use. Keeping an accurate gauge on hand will ensure your tyres are always inflated to the correct pressure.
Tyre Safety Tip 2 – Regularly Check Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure should be checked at least every two weeks to ensure safe driving and optimal tyre performance. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the recommended pressure levels, which may vary depending on the time of year. Tyre pressure tends to fluctuate with temperature changes, so during colder months, tyres typically require higher pressure, while in warmer months, a lower pressure is recommended. Consistently maintaining the correct tyre pressure will extend the life of your tyres and improve fuel efficiency.
Tyre Safety Tip 3 – Monitor Tread Wear
Keep a close eye on your tyre tread, as excessive or uneven wear can be a sign of underlying issues with your vehicle. New tyres should last a long time, but if you notice the tread wearing out quickly or unevenly, it’s important to have your car inspected. Uneven tread wear may indicate problems with your alignment, suspension, or even tyre pressure. Addressing these issues early will help preserve your tyres and maintain your car’s safety.
Tyre Safety Tip 4 – Avoid Overusing Puncture Sealants
Puncture seal compounds should only be used in emergency situations. While these products can temporarily seal a puncture, they are not a permanent fix. After using a puncture sealant, be sure to take your tyre to a professional for proper repair or replacement as soon as possible. Relying on sealants as a long-term solution can compromise the safety and integrity of your tyres.
Tyre Safety Tip 5 – Rotate Tyres Regularly
Rotating your tyres every 5,000 kilometres is a simple but important step to extending their lifespan. Tyre rotation ensures that wear is distributed evenly across all four tyres, preventing premature wear in specific areas. Along with regular rotations, make sure your wheels are properly aligned. Misaligned wheels can cause your tyres to wear unevenly and shorten their lifespan. Regular tyre rotation and proper alignment will help you get the most out of your tyres and ensure a smoother ride.
Tyre Safety Tip 6 – Avoid Buying Used Tyres
Though it may be tempting to save money by purchasing used tyres, this is not recommended. Used tyres come with unknown histories, and you cannot be certain of their condition or how much longer they will last. While they may be cheaper upfront, they often need to be replaced much sooner than new tyres. Retread tyres are similarly not ideal for the average driver, as they are best suited for vehicles that drive at low speeds and carry light loads. For your safety, it’s always best to invest in new, high-quality tyres.
Tyre Safety Tip 7 – Purchase Tyres from Reputable Dealers
When it’s time to buy new tyres, choose a reputable dealer who sells well-known, reliable brands. High-quality tyres often come with added benefits, such as free tyre rotations and insurance against road hazards. Investing in new tyres from a trusted source ensures that they will last longer and perform better. With proper care, your new tyres will provide a safe and smooth driving experience for years to come.
Conclusion
Tyre safety is crucial for extending the life of your tyres and ensuring the safety of your vehicle. By following these seven tips—using a reliable gauge, regularly checking tyre pressure, monitoring tread wear, avoiding overuse of puncture sealants, rotating tyres, steering clear of used tyres, and purchasing from reputable dealers—you can keep your tyres in top condition and enjoy safer, more efficient driving. Proper tyre care not only saves you money but also provides peace of mind on the road.
