When was the last time you inspected your tyres?
Many drivers overlook the fact that tyres are one of the most important parts of a vehicle as they are the only point of contact with the road surface. Even the slightest damage to the surface or sidewall can impair the effectiveness of braking, steering and acceleration, all of which are vital for safe driving.
Hence, it is important to ensure your tyres are in good working condition before setting off on your journey. Here are five simple tips you can follow:
Check your tyres – Keep a look out for physical damages such as bulges and blisters, which can cause sudden blow outs, or splits and cuts in the sidewall. Also, don’t forget about the spare tyre.
Tread depth – It is dangerous to drive around with bald tyres, especially when the road surface is wet. If you don’t have a tread depth gauge, look for the indicator bars embedded between the tread ribs. If they are not flushed with the tread, the tyres are still good.
Coin test – Can’t find the indicator bars? Insert a 20-sen coin in the tyre groove. If the word “sen” isn’t visible, it is time to get new tyres. Keep in mind that a tyre must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm.
Tyre pressure – Maintaining the correct tyre pressure will not only extend its life, but also result in better handling and fuel efficiency. The recommended tyre pressure for your car should be available in the manual or listed on a sticker on the door sill or the fuel cap.
Budget – Depending on the type of car you drive, replacing tyres can be quite costly. Make sure you have some cash set aside so you can get them replaced immediately when the time comes.
