Tyre Maintenance
Maintaining your vehicle is essential, whether you’re driving long distances every week or just a few miles each month. Tyres are crucial for your safety and comfort on the road, so it’s vital to care for them properly. Here are some key facts and tips about tyre maintenance that every driver should know:
Inspect Your Tyres Regularly
The simplest way to check your tyres is to look at them. Make it a habit to inspect your tyres weekly or at least fortnightly. Use a bright torch and thoroughly examine every part of the tyres, including the sides and the tread (the part that touches the road). Deep tread patterns are essential for maintaining safety on wet roads, so ensure they are legally compliant. The tread must never fall below the legal minimum depth.
Learn How to Change a Tyre
Despite careful driving and maintenance, punctures can happen unexpectedly. Learn how to change a tyre and practice on your own vehicle to prepare for emergencies. When performing vehicle maintenance or servicing, don’t forget to check the spare tyre as well—it’s just as important.
Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure
Always keep your tyres inflated to the recommended pressure. Check tyre pressure every two weeks or when refueling.
- Overinflated tyres can become damaged and may burst, especially during sudden temperature changes.
- Underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption and friction, which can lead to excessive wear.
Refer to your owner’s manual or the tyre wall for the recommended pressure levels.
If you’re carrying a heavy load, such as passengers, luggage, or a roof box, adjust the tyre pressure accordingly. Again, consult your manual for the correct levels.
Breaking in New Tyres
Drive carefully on new tyres until they’ve been properly “bedded in.” This process can take a few weeks, during which the slippery coating used during manufacturing wears off. Any potential defects will also reveal themselves during this time. Contrary to popular belief, new tyres aren’t immediately at their strongest, so avoid testing them too aggressively.
Interesting Fact
The front-left tyre typically wears out the fastest. This is because we drive on the left-hand side of the road, and the camber of the roads combined with turning tends to place more weight on the front-left tyre. Generally, if your front-left tyre is in good condition, the rest are likely in reasonable shape too.
Consult the Experts
While regular maintenance is essential, always seek professional advice for major concerns. For high-quality tyres in Stirling, check out Fife Autocentre, a trusted provider for all your tyre needs. Visit their website today.