Your car tyres take you everywhere, so it only makes sense to keep them in great shape for as long as possible. Here’s a quick list of practical tips to help you extend your tyres’ lifespan, saving you time and money in the long run.
1. Keep the Right Tyre Pressure
- Why: Underinflated or overinflated tyres wear out faster and affect handling.
- How: Check tyre pressure monthly and adjust to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI. Most petrol stations have gauges if you don’t own one.
2. Rotate Tyres Regularly
- Why: Tyres wear differently depending on their position.
- How: Rotate them every 5,000–8,000 km, or check your vehicle manual for specific intervals. Rotation evens out wear and can add thousands of kilometers to their life.
3. Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment
- Why: Misaligned wheels cause uneven tyre wear and can lead to quicker replacement.
- How: Have your alignment checked every 10,000 km or if you feel the car pulling to one side.
4. Balance Your Tyres
- Why: Balanced tyres reduce vibration, giving a smoother ride and reducing wear.
- How: Balancing is usually done during rotations or whenever you change tyres, but it’s good to check whenever you feel unusual vibrations.
5. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
- Why: Extra weight means extra stress on your tyres, causing them to wear out faster.
- How: Check the maximum load rating on your tyres (found on the sidewall or in the owner’s manual) and avoid exceeding it. This goes a long way toward keeping your tyres intact.
6. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Sudden Stops
- Why: Hard braking, quick accelerations, and sharp turns strain tyres, leading to faster wear.
- How: Gradual stops and accelerations not only keep tyres in good shape but also improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear on other car parts.
7. Store Seasonal Tyres Properly
- Why: If you switch between summer and winter tyres, proper storage ensures they’re ready to use next season.
- How: Store tyres in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and chemicals. Stack them horizontally, or hang them if they’re on rims to maintain shape.
Final Thoughts
These simple steps can help you get the most out of your tyres, improving both safety and performance. Regular maintenance isn’t just about longevity—it’s about ensuring your drive is smooth, safe, and cost-effective. Happy driving!
