While car maintenance may not be the most glamorous task, it’s hugely important not only to avoid damage but also to keep you safe.
Understandably, people may feel put off by the cost of car repairs, however, it’s hugely important to stay on top of these to keep you and other road users safe.
Your tyres play an important role in keeping you safe out on the road – more so than you might have anticipated. Here’s what you need to know about identifying when your tyres may need replacing.
Too many vibrations
If you find that your car is vibrating on a smooth road such as a motorway, this can indicate that something is wrong with your tyres. While it’s understandable on a less stable road, you shouldn’t be experiencing this at all times. Take the time to drive on different services and assess whether your car is experiencing too many vibrations.
Tread depth
Legally, your tread depth should be a minimum of 1.6mm. When your tyres reach 3mm or less, it’s time to get them looked at by a mechanic. While one tyre might be fine, another might not pass the test.
Think of it as having the grip on your trainers wearing away – it creates a much less steady surface on the bottom of your feet and can mean you’re more likely to have an accident. You could be faced with 3 points on your licence per tyre if your tread is below the legal requirement.
Cracks in the sidewall
Reports suggest that the pandemic is to blame for the rise in cracked tyres in the UK, leading to further complications down the line that could result in an accident out on the road.
Cracks can start to emerge in the sidewall over time, even in more expensive tyres. This is caused by the oils and chemicals in the rubber compound evaporating or breaking down. It’s believed that UV light exposure can cause this, so no car is exempt.
The rubber polymers in your tyres naturally weaken if they’re covered thousands of miles on the road. The exterior becomes hard and prone to cracking as a result. Be sure to check them thoroughly to avoid any incidents.
Tyre lifespan
Like with many things in the world of automobiles, tyres have lifespans. If you buy a brand-new car, the likelihood is that it will last around five years before the rubber compound starts to degrade. Fortunately, you can get ahead of the game and buy tyres online. This takes out the hassle of having to buy them from the shops and searching for the right specifications. Schedule routine tyre checks and pay attention to any advisories when you take your car in for an MOT or service.
