We often have all the best intentions when it comes to checking our tyre pressures, but actually getting around to it can be a very different story! It really is worth putting this task on your “to do” list for the week – it only takes a few minutes and has so many great benefits. Not only is it important for your vehicle’s optimum performance, but it also helps to get the best fuel efficiency (and who doesn’t want that?) Plus, it’s worth remembering that your tyres are all that are between you and the road, so making sure they’re properly inflated is vital for safety reasons too.
We’ve also got a couple of other tips to help you get the most out of your tyres with 2020 now underway – so here goes…
Driving style isn’t always just about style!
The way you drive can make a huge difference to how long your tyres last. Driving aggressively, braking and cornering sharply and hitting curbs or potholes will all impact on your tyres (causing immediate damage or longer term uneven and premature wear). Driving carefully to avoiding obstacles and avoiding sudden braking (except when it’s necessary of course!) can help care for your tyres.
Do a quick walk around your vehicle regularly to check your tyres
If you’ve ever hired a car, you’ll know the drill of doing a check for any damage before setting off. In much the same way, doing a regular “walk around” your vehicle and having a good look at the wheels and tyres is useful in helping you get to know the condition of your tyres and to see if there’s any obvious damage or objects (such as nails) embedded in them. Also keep a close eye on the tread – you need 1.6mm of tread on a tyre for its safe use. If yours is looking worn, or you’re unsure of how to check your tread, have a tyre specialist take a look.
Did we mention correct inflation is vital?
It’s worth repeating that keeping your tyres inflated at the correct and optimal level for your vehicle is not only important for safety reasons, but it will also help ensure more even wear and fuel efficiency. Remember that both too much and too little air can be detrimental. Inflate your tyres when they are cool, at the start of a journey and check the pressure regularly (the more mileage you do the more regularly these checks should be). Consult your owner’s manual for information on increasing the pressure for heavy loads.
Rotate for even wear and longer life
Rotating your tyres is recommended about every 10,000km – and can help to ensure even wear and get the best life from your tyres. The way your tyres are rotated will depend on both the type of vehicle (e.g. 4×4 or front-wheel drive) as well as the type of tyre (directional or non-directional). Once again, a tyre professional will be able to assist!
