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How do I extend the life of my tyres?

Tyres are an often overlooked safety item on vehicles. Since these rubber items are your vehicle's only contact patch with the ground, they are among the most important automotive safety features! Here's how you can extend the life of your tyres!

Car Ownership

Maintaining the lifespan of your car tyres is essential for ensuring safety on the road and maximising their durability. Here are 7 tips to help you extend the life of your car tyres.

Related: Reasons why a car tyre won't inflate

  1. Proper inflation: One of the most critical factors in tyre longevity is maintaining the correct tyre pressure. Underinflated tyres can lead to increased rolling resistance, excessive wear on the edges, and reduced fuel efficiency. Overinflated tyres, on the other hand, can cause the centre of the tread to wear out more quickly. Regularly check your tyre pressure using a gauge and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommended levels.

  2. Regular rotation: Tyre rotation involves swapping the positions of the tyres on your vehicle. This practice ensures even wear and tear on all tyres, extending their lifespan. Consult your car's owner manual for the recommended rotation pattern and frequency. Typically, rotation is advised every 8 000 to 13000 km.

  3. Wheel alignment: Proper wheel alignment is crucial for maintaining tyre longevity. Misaligned wheels can lead to uneven tyre wear, resulting in a shorter lifespan. If you notice your car pulling to one side or are experiencing vibrations in the steering wheel, it might be an indication of misalignment. Get your wheels aligned by a professional tyre fitment store to prevent premature tyre wear.

  4. Avoid overloading: Excessive weight puts pressure on your tyres and can cause them to wear out faster. Be mindful of your vehicle's maximum load capacity and avoid exceeding it. If you frequently carry heavy loads, consider upgrading to tyres with a higher load rating to accommodate the extra weight.

  5. Smooth driving: Aggressive driving habits like hard braking, rapid acceleration, and sharp turns can accelerate tyre wear. Drive smoothly and avoid sudden movements to reduce unnecessary strain on your tyres. Additionally, try to avoid potholes, curbs, and other road hazards that can cause damage to the tyres.

  6. Regular inspections: Regularly check your tyres for signs of damage, uneven wear, or bulges. If you notice any issues, have them addressed promptly to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.

  7. Choose quality tyres: Investing in high-quality tyres from reputable brands can significantly impact their lifespan. Quality tyres are designed to offer better traction, durability, and resistance to wear. Research and choose tyres that are suitable for your driving conditions and needs.

By following these tips, you can extend the life of your car tyres, saving money in the long run and ensuring a safer driving experience. Remember, regular maintenance and responsible driving habits are key to ensuring the longevity of your tyres.

Author - Sean Nurse

Written by Sean Nurse

With a lifelong passion for cars, bikes, and motorsport, Sean knew that attaining a degree in journalism would allow him to pursue his passion, which was to be a motoring journalist. After graduating in 2012, Sean was awarded a bursary from the SAGMJ which allowed him to work for a variety of motoring publications. This was a dream come true for Sean, and after a year of gaining vital industry experience, he was hired as a motoring journalist at a local newspaper and worked his way up to editor. In 2020, Sean joined the AutoTrader team and counts himself lucky to wake up and genuinely love what he does for a living.Read more

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