Tyres are one of the hardest working components of any car, yet many drivers forget just how crucial they are. These round pieces of rubber carry your vehicle's entire weight, maintain traction on all kinds of surfaces, and absorb countless road shocks. If you want smoother rides, better safety, and to save money in the long run, looking after your tyres should be high on your list. With just a few good habits and checks, you can get the best from every set of tyres and avoid common problems down the road.
Check Your Tyre Pressure Often
Low or uneven tyre pressure is one of the most common causes of poor fuel economy and tyre wear. Air escapes naturally over time, and outside temperatures can speed up this process. Driving on underinflated tyres makes your engine work harder, increases stopping distances, and wears down the tread faster. To avoid this, it’s smart to check your tyre pressure at least once a month, especially before long trips. Always measure pressure when the tyres are cold to get an accurate reading and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines found inside the door frame or fuel cap.
Inspect Tread Depth and Damage
Your tyre’s grip depends on how deep its tread is. The more tread it has, the better it can push water aside and stay in contact with the road. Once tread depth drops below 1.6 mm, your car becomes more prone to slipping and hydroplaning. Checking for tread wear doesn’t require fancy tools; just insert a coin into the groove and see if it covers part of the outer edge. If the tread is shallow or you see cracks, bulges, or nails stuck in the rubber, it's time to get them looked at or replaced. Inspect your tyres regularly, and don't ignore early signs of wear.
Balance and Align for a Smoother Ride
Misaligned wheels or unbalanced tyres can ruin your driving experience. If your steering wheel vibrates or pulls to one side, chances are your wheels need adjustment. When tyres are replaced or rotated, it's essential to have them rebalanced and realigned. This avoids uneven wear and makes sure your car handles as it should. It also helps your tyres last longer, since incorrect alignment can cause certain parts of the tread to wear out quicker than others.
Store Tyres Correctly Between Seasons
If you use winter and summer tyres, how you store the unused set matters. Tyres degrade over time, even if they’re not on the road. Moisture, sunlight, and chemicals can all break down the rubber and cause cracks. To keep them in top shape, store your tyres in a dry, cool place out of direct sunlight. Avoid stacking them for long periods and keep them away from oil, cleaners, and sharp tools. Good storage helps maintain tyre integrity and saves you from surprise failures when it’s time to swap them back on.
With regular checks and a bit of attention, your tyres will stay in top condition, giving you better control, fuel efficiency, and safety every time you hit the road.
Nasser Ahmed, a die-hard fan of hardware devices, has been obsessed with machinery since childhood. With over 10 years of automotive repair experience, he's a true expert. He loves sharing knowledge about car fault repairs, helping countless car owners get back on the road.
