12 Car Tyre Safety and Maintenance Tips

Your car's tyres are the only points of contact between your vehicle and the road, so it's crucial to ensure they're in good condition. Properly maintained tyres can improve your car's handling, braking, and fuel efficiency, and also help to prevent accidents.

Here are 12 important tyre safety and maintenance tips to help you keep your car in top condition:

1. Check your tyre pressure regularly

Tyre pressure is one of the most important factors affecting tyre safety and performance. Overinflated or underinflated tyres can lead to premature wear, poor handling, and increased risk of blowouts. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month, and more often if you're driving in hot weather or carrying heavy loads.

2. Inspect your tyres for signs of damage

Regularly inspect your tyres for signs of damage, such as cuts, cracks, bulges, or foreign objects embedded in the tread. If you notice any damage, have your tyres inspected by a qualified mechanic.

3. Rotate your tyres regularly

Rotating your tyres helps to even out wear and tear, and can extend the lifespan of your tyres. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the recommended tyre rotation schedule.

4. Have your tyres balanced and aligned regularly

Wheel balancing and alignment ensure that your tyres are running smoothly and evenly, which can improve handling, reduce wear, and extend tyre life. Have your tyres balanced and aligned at least once a year, or more often if you're experiencing vibration or uneven tyre wear.

5. Avoid overloading your car

Overloading your car can put excessive strain on your tyres and increase the risk of blowouts. Follow your vehicle's recommended load capacity and avoid overloading your car with passengers or cargo.

6. Avoid hard braking and cornering

Hard braking and cornering can put excessive wear and tear on your tyres. Try to anticipate stops and corners and brake gradually to reduce strain on your tyres.

7. Use the right tyres for the conditions

Different types of tyres are designed for different driving conditions. For example, winter tyres are designed to provide better traction in cold weather and snow, while summer tyres are designed for optimal performance in warm weather. Use the appropriate tyres for the conditions to ensure optimal safety and performance.

8. Store your tyres properly

If you're storing your tyres, do so in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. This will help to prevent them from cracking or rotting.

9. Replace your tyres when they're worn

Tyres have a tread wear indicator, which is a raised bar that runs across the tread. When the tread wear indicator is level with the tread surface, it's time to replace your tyres.

10. Use a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

A TPMS can alert you when your tyre pressure is low, which can help to prevent blowouts and other safety hazards.

11. Be aware of road hazards

Avoid driving over potholes, curbs, and other road hazards, as these can damage your tyres.

12. Have your tyres inspected by a qualified mechanic

If you have any concerns about your tyres, have them inspected by a qualified mechanic.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your car's tyres are in good condition and that you're driving safely.