A GUIDE TO KEEPING YOUR TYRES IN CHECK

You’ve ticked all the right boxes when it comes to making sure that everything is seamlessly in place for that end of year holiday, but can you say the same for your tyres?

Here are some tyre safety basics to look out for:

Take note of your tread

We all have a favourite pair of shoes that we wear until the heels have eroded beyond recognition of their former glory. Just like the heels of your shoes, tyres have tread that wears down with driving. The more worn your tyres, the less traction and grip you will have on the road, meaning your braking distance will increase and you are more likely to skid when driving in the rain. In fact, the legal tread depth limit in South Africa is a minimum of 1mm across the entire circumference of the tyre. Not sure whether you are legal, ask a wheel and tyre professional to point out the tread wear indicators on your tyres.

Under pressure

The right tyre pressure can also be the difference between life and death. Don’t assume the pressure is two. Each car comes with recommended pressures which you will find in the sill of the driver’s door or inside the fuel cap. Rather take the time to check these and make sure the pressure is just right.

The other tyre

Before you get on your way, also check that you have a spare tyre and that it is inflated to the right pressure, and has the right amount of tread – at least 1mm – for a safe journey.

Balancing act

Staying in your lane is a basic rule, but neglecting the balancing and alignment of your wheels can make you lose your step. If your car is shaking or pulling to one side while driving, you need to get your wheels balanced and aligned. Sometimes it’s very subtle so make sure you check your wheel balancing and alignment every 10 000 kms or before every major trip. This not only improves the handling of your car but also extends the tread life of your tyres.

These are just some of the basics for keeping your tyres in check and staying safe on the roads. We suggest that you take your car to your nearest wheel and tyre specialist for a free safety check so that all you need to worry about this festive season is having a good time.

Replacing your tyres: If you have to replace a tyre due to worn tread or damage, never replace only 1 tyre at a time as this will affect the handling of your car. Always replace 2 or 4 tyres.

Repairing your tyres: If you need to repair a tyre, don’t take any short cuts with a temporary plug and only have it repaired at a reputable tyre dealer.