When purchasing a vehicle, whether new or used, the salesperson will typically walk you through its many features and explain their functions. You can ask them to do everything from syncing your phone to saving your favorite radio stations.
The tires, however, are rarely mentioned.
Your vehicle’s tyres are its only contact with the road, hence they should be considered its primary safety element. And since faulty tyres are a common cause of accidents, learning proper tyre maintenance might help you avoid filing an insurance claim.
Here’s a primer to help you get started…
It’s important to routinely check the air pressure.
If your tire seems even slightly deflated, it’s probably completely flat.
A tyre’s sturdy build is meant to endure the grueling forces it experiences at high speeds, so it takes a lot for it to appear flat.
Tire pressure should be checked whenever you fill up the gas tank, or more frequently if you don’t drive your car often. Check the tyre temperature after filling up at the gas station, as a cool tyre is a sign of good performance.
Tire pressure should be checked regularly; if you’ve never done so before and aren’t sure how to do so, see the vehicle’s owner’s manual. It’s not exactly page-turning, but it’ll get the job done and provide useful information like the proper tyre inflation pressure. A tire’s size can be found printed on the sidewall, but this visual guidance from Bridgestone can also be helpful.
Unscrew the dust cap from the valve that sticks out from the wheel when you pull into the gas station. As soon as the airline is connected to the valve, the pressure in the tire can be monitored via the dial. Put it through its paces, and when you’re done, secure the dust cap. It’s crucial you don’t lose the dust cap because they offer valuable protection for the sensitive innards against the dust and grime pushed up by the road. If you are tired of repairing your old automobile then you can sell it to Bellevue Hill car wreckers.
Measure the depth of the treads on the tires.
Just like with a pair of running shoes or hiking boots, the more tread a tyre has, the stronger a grip it will have on whatever terrain it is driving over.
This tread will wear down as the tires accumulate more mileage. However, how long they endure can be affected by factors like as the vehicle, the driver, the surrounding environment, and the weather. Keeping the air pressure at an optimal level can help them survive as long as feasible.
Manufacturers of tires like Goodyear recommend checking the tread depth at least once every month. First, look at the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock spots on the tire to see what you can. You should then slowly advance the vehicle, turn off the engine, and reapply the hand brake so you may inspect the previously inaccessible parts of the tyre.
Make sure there aren’t any sharp objects, such screws, nails, or other trash, stuck within. Check that the tread depth is still above the ridges that lie in the tread’s grooves. These bumps are designed to alert drivers when the tread depth is below the 1.6mm legal limit.
The tires should be changed before they reach that point, though. Then, place a twenty pence coin into the divots between the treads. If the coin’s raised outer edge is visible, the tyre needs changing.
Why keeping your tires properly inflated and pressured can save your life
Don’t forget how crucial it is to have quality tires.
Good traction enhances braking power and aids in steering, and the right amount of air inside them functions as a spring, supporting your car’s weight and dampening road shocks.
Maintaining healthy tires is an easy way to keep yourself and your passengers safer on the road. If you’re still confused or lack confidence, though, you may always visit your neighborhood garage or tyre shop for some expert assistance.