Tires are an essential part of your vehicle, as they are the only point of contact between your car and the road. Ensuring that your tires are in good condition is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable driving experience. Regular tire checks are crucial to maintain your tire’s longevity and avoid any unexpected breakdowns.
Here are five tire checks that you can perform to ensure a safe and comfortable ride:
- TIRE PRESSURE: Checking your tire pressure regularly is one of the simplest yet most important things you can do to keep your tires in good shape. Low tire pressure can lead to increased rolling resistance, causing your tires to wear out faster and reducing fuel efficiency. On the other hand, overinflated tires can lead to uneven tire wear and poor traction, which can compromise your safety. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain the optimal tire pressure, which can be found in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or on the tire itself.
Frequency: It’s recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month and always before long drives.
- TREADWEAR: The tread on your tires is designed to provide grip and traction on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Over time, the tread wears out, reducing its effectiveness, and increasing the risk of accidents. Therefore, it’s crucial to check your tire treads regularly to identify any signs of uneven or excessive wear. The penny test is an easy way to check your tire treads. Simply place a penny upside down in the tire’s tread grooves. If the top of Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s time to replace your tires.
Frequency: It’s recommended to check your tire treads at least once a month.
- TIRE ALIGNMENT: Misaligned tires can cause uneven and faster tread wear, leading to reduced grip and increased risk of accidents. It’s best to have your tire alignment checked regularly, preferably every time you take your car for servicing, to ensure a safer drive. Signs of misaligned tires include the vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, or a crooked steering wheel when driving straight.
Frequency: It’s recommended to have your tire alignment checked every time you go for servicing.
- TIRE BALANCE: Tire balance refers to the distribution of weight around your tire and wheel assembly. Unbalanced tires can cause uneven tire wear, vibration, and lead to poor handling and safety issues. Regular tire balance checks can prevent these problems, promote a smoother and safer ride, and extend the life of your tires.
Frequency: It’s recommended to have your tire balance checked after the first 5,000 km and every 10,000 km thereafter.
- TIRE VALVES: Tire valves play a critical role in maintaining your tire’s airtightness. Over time, tire valves can deteriorate and cause leaks, reducing your tire’s performance and safety. Therefore, it’s essential to replace your tire valves when you get new tires to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Frequency: It’s recommended to replace your tire valves every time you change your tires.
Performing regular tire checks can help you identify any potential issues early on, prevent breakdowns, and ensure a safer and more enjoyable driving experience. By taking care of your tires, you’ll not only save money in the long run but also enhance your vehicle’s overall performance and safety.
