Tyres play a critical role in your vehicle's safety and performance and significantly impact fuel efficiency. They are the only vehicle parts that make direct contact with the road, yet they are often overlooked during routine maintenance checks.
It is crucial to have your tyres regularly serviced to prolong their lifespan and maintain their performance. Here are some recommended services to help you extend your tyres' life.
1. Regular Tyre Inspection
Routine tyre checks are essential for extending the lifespan of your tyres. A trained technician will check the following during an inspection:
- Tread depth
- Sidewalls
- Air pressure
The tread depth ensures proper traction for tyres when driving, especially in wet conditions. Worn-out treads can pose risks like extended braking distances and higher chances of hydroplaning incidents due to reduced grip levels.
Examining the sidewalls regularly for signs of damage, such as cracks or bulges, and checking for punctures can help prevent blowouts and address any issues promptly before they become irreparable.
Many people wait until their vehicle service appointments to check tyre pressure levels. While this is generally acceptable, checking them more frequently (once a month is ideal) wouldn't hurt. Keeping the tyre pressure is a simple yet powerful way to prolong the lifespan of your tyres. When tyres are not inflated enough (underinflated), they cause friction on the road surface, resulting in quicker wear and tear on the tyres, increased fuel consumption, and a higher risk of blowouts. On the other hand, overinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear and diminished tyre grip.
Regular inspections are key to identifying and resolving any tyre-related concerns and maintaining road safety and optimal performance.
2. Tyre Rotation
Regular tyre rotation is required because tyres can wear unevenly depending on their position on the vehicle. For instance, front-wheel-drive cars typically experience wear on the front tyres. By rotating them, you can ensure uniform wear and potentially extend their lifespan. It’s a good rule of thumb to have them rotated around every 5,000 kilometres.
3. Wheel Alignment
Uneven tyre wear can also be attributed to wheel misalignment. During an alignment service, a technician ensures that all four tyres are correctly positioned in relation to each other and the road surface. This reduces uneven wear and prolongs the lifespan of your tyres.
4. Balancing
Making sure that the weight is evenly distributed around the axle is essential. A slight imbalance could put a strain on the suspension system, causing vibrations and uneven tyre wear. During this service, small weights are attached to the wheels to correct any imbalances. This task is usually carried out when you replace your tyres, but it is also recommended to have them balanced if you notice unusual vibrations or after a tyre repair job.
5. Tyre Repairs
Since your tyres are always in contact with the road surface, they face harsh conditions that can cause punctures and other minor damages. Services like patching or plugging can help prolong the life of your tyres. However, trust only skilled professionals who follow industry standards to carry out the repairs. Improper maintenance could jeopardise the integrity and safety of your tyres, resulting in potential risks while driving.
6. Replacing Tyres
Knowing when to replace your tyres is key to maintaining vehicle safety. At some point, all tyres wear out and will require replacement. One indicator that it’s time to replace your tyres is when the tread depth wears down to 1.6mm or if there are any damages that your technician can no longer repair. Replacing your tyres when necessary will enhance safety and ensure your vehicle performs at its best.
7. Choosing the Right Tyres
Choosing the right tyres for your car ensures their durability and performance over time. Not all tyres are designed for every vehicle type. Factors such as driving environment, weather conditions, and driving habits should be considered when selecting. Investing in top-quality tyres may cost more upfront but can improve longevity, performance, and safety in the long run. Seeking advice from a tyre expert can help you make an informed decision.
Tyres are an investment in your safety and your vehicle's performance. Regular tyre services such as inspections, rotations, alignments, and proper inflation can significantly extend the life of your tyres. Our tyre experts are ready to help you with any of these services. Visit your nearest Tyrepower today.
