When To Replace Your Tyres: Three Signs To Look Out For
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one of the most crucial aspects is ensuring that your tyres are in good condition. Your tyres are responsible for the stability and control of your vehicle, and they directly affect your car's braking and handling. However, it's not always clear when your tyres need to be replaced, especially if you are not an expert in your car's mechanics. Luckily, there are several signs that anyone can notice if they know what to look for that will tell you that your car needs new tyres. Here are a few of those signs that everyone should be on the lookout for when it comes to their tyres.
Tread Wear
The tread on your tyres is what provides traction and grip on the road, and it wears down over time. The minimum tread depth allowed by law varies, but often 1.6mm is the bare minimum you should be aiming for. However, it's recommended to replace your tyres when the tread depth reaches a certain point to ensure optimal grip and safety. You never want to take a risk with your tread, as that is the only thing separating you from having control of your car to sliding into a ditch or off the road.
Age Of Your Tyres
Even if your tyres appear to be in great condition, it's recommended to replace them after six years, regardless of the amount of wear. Rubber degrades over time, and this can lead to a loss of grip and an increased risk of blowouts. Even if you don't use your car very much, or you think you take reasonably good care of your vehicle when you are not behind the wheel, this age factor is still one you need to be on the lookout for. Tyres just are not reliable forever, and the last thing you want is for yours to give out on a motorway or in a lot of traffic.
Punctures Of Any Kind
Punctures are a common problem for tyres, and they can often be repaired. However, if the puncture is in the sidewall or shoulder of the tyre, it's best to replace the tyre as these areas are not repairable. In some instances, such as if the tyre is old or the tread is also worn down, it may not be worth repairing the tyre at all. Always trust the judgement of the tyre experts that you go to with your old tyres, as they are trained in recognizing issues that may be lost on the average person.
