Looking after your tyres?
Were you aware that tires that are not properly maintained can considerably lessen your car's ability to brake and make it challenging to manoeuvre on the road?
Well-maintained tyres have a longer lifespan compared to those that are neglected so it's crucial to have your tyres checked regularly by qualified professionals to ensure road safety, but as a vehicle owner, you also have a part to play in keeping your tyres in good condition. This article will provide essential insights on tyre maintenance that every car owner should be aware of so you can look after your tyres and they can look after you.
Proper inflation
Regularly checking the air pressure in your tyres is crucial for optimal handling and fuel efficiency. Utilising a high-quality air gauge, it is recommended to check tyre pressure at least once a month. Failure to do so can result in excessive wear and tear, which could lead to a hazardous blowout and decrease in tyre life. Underinflated tyres also generate excessive heat, decreasing fuel efficiency through increased rolling resistance and requiring more work from your vehicle. On the other hand, over-inflation causes uneven wear on the tyre, shortening its lifespan and decreasing performance. To ensure your tyres last as long as possible, make sure to maintain the correct air pressure.
Alignment & Balancing
Improperly balanced and aligned wheels can accelerate tyre wear and make steering more difficult. Vibrations and drifting are signs that you should seek a professional to balance and align your wheels. Proper wheel alignment and balance are crucial to ensure safe and smooth driving. Checking the suspension and steering components is also necessary to keep your tyre and wheel assemblies running straight and true.
Unbalanced tyres can result in excessive vibration while driving, which can be fatiguing for the driver. Additionally, this can lead to accelerated wear and tear of the tyres, as well as other parts of the suspension system. A simple solution is to ensure your tyres are balanced during initial fitting and routinely thereafter to avoid unnecessary issues.
Ensuring your wheels are correctly aligned is vital for even tyre wear and accurate steering. Uneven tyre wear or diminished handling can be a sign that your alignment requires checking. Investing in tyre balancing and vehicle alignment is cost-effective in the long run, as it can increase tyre lifespan and improve your car's performance and comfort on the road.
Tyre Rotation
Regularly rotating your tyres is crucial for longevity and smoother driving. Uneven weight distribution means that they won't wear down evenly, but rotation can remedy this. Different tyre types require specific rotation methods; all-season tyres typically switch the back to the front and sides, while the front move to the back on the same side (known as "modified X" pattern). Directional tyres simply rotate forward and back. If you drive a four-wheel-drive, it's best to switch all four tyres, both from side-to-side and front-to-back, according to your owner's manual. Always check tyre pressure post-rotation to keep your tyres in top condition. Ultimately, tyre rotation is an essential maintenance procedure to extend your tyre lifespan and promote even wear.
Visual inspection
Regularly inspecting your tyres for tread depth and overall condition is crucial for ensuring road safety. A worn-out or damaged tyre can lead to a potentially dangerous blowout or loss of control. To detect any problems early on, it's essential to check your tyres regularly. While inspecting air pressure, it's important to also examine the tyres for any visible signs of damage, including punctures, cracks, and pitting. Even small punctures can lead to significant issues over time, making timely replacements crucial for optimal road safety.
It is important to inspect your tyre treads for wear patterns. If the edges are worn out more than usual, this may indicate underinflation, whereas if the middle is worn out, overinflation may be the culprit. In addition, some tyres come equipped with tread wear indicator bars that indicate when it is time for a new tyre. When the rubber bar becomes visible across the tread, the tyre should be replaced. These tips are crucial for ensuring road safety.
Can a tyre be repaired?
Prompt repair of punctures or any damage to your tyre is critical to avoid potential hazards. Operating a vehicle with a damaged tyre can be dangerous, and even travelling a short distance on a flat tyre can cause severe damage that could result in expensive replacements. Certain tyres can be repaired depending on the severity of puncture damage, but larger holes or cuts, as well as sidewall damage, may necessitate a tyre replacement. At Tassie Automotive, Glenorchy in Glenorchy, we provide professional tyre repair services to help keep you safe on the road.
Do you need new tyres?
Maintaining your tyres is crucial, but eventually, they will require replacement. In Glenorchy, trust only Tassie Automotive, Glenorchy for all your tyre supply, fitting, repair, and maintenance needs. With our extensive experience, we cater to all types of vehicles and provide exceptional solutions. Rely on our expert team to guide you towards the ideal tyre solution for your needs.
To ensure the longest life for your new tyres, it is essential to have them fitted, balanced and aligned correctly. Our qualified mechanics can take care of this for you, ensuring your safety on the road. Our professionals can also provide you with expert advice on purchasing the right tyres for your car, giving you the confidence that you have made a wise investment in your vehicle. In addition, we can inspect and maintain your tyres and related components, providing you with peace of mind knowing that your vehicle is in good hands.
The safety of your car and its passengers should be your top priority. Regular check-ups of your tyres by our professionals can help ensure that your tyres are in excellent condition.
