KEEPING AN EYE ON YOUR TYRES
When your tyres fail, it can lead to a loss of control, a situation every driver wants to avoid when driving. Bad tyres lead to accidents. It’s very simple. That’s why it’s important to recognize when your tyres are showing signs of wear and replace them before a bad accident happens.
Simple steps can be taken to keep your tyres in good condition:
1. Check the Tread Depth:
Always ensure that the tread depth of your tires never falls below 1.6 millimetres. In the wet rainier months, it should be at least twice that depth. Modern tyres often have built-in tread wear indicator bars. These bars gradually become visible as the tread wears down. However, it's recommended to change your tyres before reaching this point, as driving with inadequate tread in wet conditions can be dangerous.
2. Check for Weak Spots:
Visual check the side wall of your tyres and look for tracks, cuts, or cracks. Any obvious marks or damage may indicate leaks or a potential blowout, requiring immediate replacement. Also, keep an eye out for cracked or weathered sidewalls.
3. Bulges and Blisters:
If you notice a bulge or small bubble get your tyres checked by a professional immediately. Tyre bulges occur when the structural integrity of the tyre sidewall is weakened causing the internal air pressure to create a bulge. A lump or bulge usually indicates the tyre has been damaged internally, meaning it will most probably need to be replaced very soon.
Hitting the kerb can damage the sidewall of your tyre. Bulges can also be caused by debris hitting the tyre or driving over speed bumps too quickly. The best way to avoid bulges in your tyres is to drive carefully, avoiding as many bumps and potholes as possible.
Low tyre pressure can also cause bulges to develop. You can prevent this from happening by regularly checking your tyre pressure levels and inflating them when necessary.
4. Feel the vibrations:
If you’re not Marky Mark lots of vibration could mean that your tyres are misaligned or unbalanced. It could also mean that your shock absorbers are starting to go or there is an internal problem with one of your tyres.
If you notice a large amount of vibration, particularly when driving on well-paved roads, you should get your car checked out immediately.
Only Marky Mark should be feeling the vibrations, not your vehicle.
BOOK A CHECK UP
Remember proper tyre care is essential. Maintaining your tyres regularly, will ensure your car remains safe and reliable on the road.
Check for tread wear yourself at least once a month. And make sure you come see us at Goodspanner for a quick tyres check before and after a long journey.