Some people tend pay attention to their tires only when they have a flat tyre or worse, a close call or accident. Good tires are what makes your vehicle stable and safe to drive. Tyre care is essential for safety, comfort, reliability and fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Regular inspection and maintenance will make sure your tires are operating at optimal level at all times. Here are a few ways you can do so:
1. Inspection - A proper visual inspection can help prevent tyre failure at an early stage. Do check the tyre surface and sidewall for any irregularities like bulges, cuts and cracks. Also, remember to check your rims.
2. Tread Wear - Tyres have a tread-wear indicator marked by a small arrow on the outer wall of the tyre. If the outermost layer of the tyre touches the tread wear indicator, it’s time for a replacement.
3. Tyre Replacement - A tyre should be replaced before the tread depth decreases below the recommended tread depth (Generally, 1.4mm for wet conditions). According to experts a tyre should not be used more than 10 years regardless of the total kilometers driven, since the tyres also age with time and it affects the reliability and increase the risk of tyre failure.
4. Tyre rotation - Rotating tyres is the best way to have equal wear across all tyres and thus extend their service life. The rotation of tyres depends on the type of vehicle, i.e., front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Wheel rotation is recommended every 10,000km.
5. Tyre Pressure - Inflate your tyres to the recommended pressure which is usually mentioned on the driver-side door sill and in the owner’s manual. Under inflation will damage the tyre and increase fuel consumption. High tyre pressure will make your rides bumpy and increase the risk of a blowout. Make sure that you get the tyres checked when they are cold.
6. Wheel Balancing - Wheel balancing allows the tires and wheels to spin without causing any vibrations. This is recommended for better ride, handling and safety. Balance the wheel assembly whenever vibrations are felt during running
7. Wheel Alignment - Wheel alignment should be done after every 5,000 kms. or whenever any irregular wear on tyre is found.
8. Valve Care - Valve and valve cap are important as they protect the tyres from dust and dirt particles. Ensure both are in good condition to maintain an air-tight seal and correct tyre pressure.
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