With the constant pressure of the cost-of-living crisis impacting many households and fuel prices continuing to fluctuate, it’s now more important than ever to make sure you get the most out of your car. One often overlooked aspect of car maintenance is tyre care.
Good car tyres are essential for safety, fuel efficiency and overall vehicle performance. So, what can you do to keep your car tyres in top condition? In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the important steps you can take to ensure your car tyres stand the test of time and provide you with optimal performance.
Regular tyre pressure checks
One of the simplest yet most crucial steps in tyre maintenance is checking the pressure regularly. Under-inflated tyres can lead to increased fuel consumption, reduced grip and uneven wear, while over-inflated tyres can compromise comfort and handling.
The ideal tyre pressure is usually found in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Remember to check your tyres when they’re cold, as driving even a short distance can increase the pressure. Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressure and adjust as needed. Many petrol stations offer free air pumps with pressure gauges.
Tread depth inspection
Your tyre’s tread is vital for grip, especially in wet conditions. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but it’s recommended to replace tyres when they reach 3mm for optimal safety.
A top tip to check your tread depth is to use a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the tread grooves with the outer edge downwards. If you can see the outer band of the coin, your tread depth is below the legal limit.
Wheel alignment
Proper wheel alignment is essential for even tyre wear, optimal handling and fuel efficiency. If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel is off-centre, it’s likely that your wheels are out of alignment.
Uneven wear on your car tyres can be a symptom of misalignment. This can cause your tyres to wear out prematurely and reduce their lifespan. Regular wheel alignment checks can help to prevent this and save you money in the long run. You can get a free wheel alignment check undertaken at many local car garages up and down the UK, so don’t hesitate to contact them if you are concerned and would like a car mechanic to take a look.
Regular tyre rotation
Tyre rotation involves moving your tyres from one wheel position to another. This helps to ensure even wear across all four tyres. It’s recommended to rotate your tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 miles or as advised in your car’s service manual. You can also change your car tyres during the winter and summer seasons, ensuring your car delivers the optimum performance when driving in different weather conditions.
