Driving is mucky business. Navigating the roads of our towns, cities and countryside puts your car in direct contact with the elements, chemicals, oils and aggregates, salt and grit, grime and slime. Keeping your tires and alloys in a well maintained state is not just essential to keep them looking good, but it also prevents degradation and erosion, which in turn can lead to accidents.
Check tire pressure regularly
If your car’s tire are not inflated to the correct pressure, this can have a damaging impact not just on your vehicle’s maneuverability, but more importantly on its overall safety. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can impact, the steering and braking, or can lead to a severe accident.
The pressure in tires can discharge overtime simply due to use, which is why it is so important to keep a good eye on the. But you don’t have to have a full on blow out for tire pressure to become affected – a slow puncture can slip by unnoticed if you do not keep a constant check on your tires.
Verify your car’s tire pressure readings in your car manual, or check them online. When checking, do not be tempted to overinflate.
Keep tires cleans and debris free
Throughout your journeys you tires will pick up all sorts of debris from the roads, so when you clean your car make sure that your regularly. Check the groove in the tires, as often these will often pick up stones or loose nails which could lead to punctures.
Use a non acid alloy cleaner to keep the alloys clean and free from muck and grime. Neglecting to clean the alloys will lead to corrosion and degradation of the metal, which in turn will impact the condition of the tire itself, so make sure you keep on top of your cleaning regime.
Drive and park with due care and attention
We really shouldn’t have to include this as a piece of advice, but even the smallest nudge against the kerb when driving at normal speeds can affect the integrity of the tire. When parking, make sure that you maintain a few centimeters distance from the kerb to avoid squashing the tire which, if left for a period of time, squeezes the pressure in the tire itself and could cause a blow out.
If you do have to mount the kerb at any time, do so carefully and slowly. Mount the kerb at an angle which is acute to the kerb to avoid scraping the side of the pavement and thereby damaging your tyres.
Carrying heavy loads
There may be times when you are carrying heavier loads than normal, in which case you will need to double check the recommended pressure of your tires and adjust accordingly. If you are carrying too much weight and load for the current pressure, this will cause the tire to overheat and potentially explode.
Do not compromise on tire quality
A car is a lethal weapon that weighs over 4000lbs. There should be absolutely no compromise on the quality of tires, and your commitment to keeping them in a fit state for driving on public roads.
The safety of your passengers and of other road users is imperative. Checking tire pressure and the state of your tires should be an activity that is part of your weekly and monthly car maintenance protocols. If in any doubt refer back to your car dealership, or take your vehicle to a reputable garage who will be able to advice you professionally.
