Tag: tread depth

Keep checking those tyres!

It is recommended to check your tyres very frequently. It can be stated, that you can’t check them often enough. The question remains how often should they be checked. I would say that when you stop at the petrol station to fill up your car, then should try to check the tyres.  Petrol stations tend to be well lit and you have the necessary equipment there to care for the tyres, if there are any problems.

Inflating the tyres at a petrol station

Do a quick visual check for any bulging of the tyre, and defects on the sidewall and check the tread depth. This can be done very quickly. Often tears or bulges come from hitting the curb while trying to park your car. So be careful when you park your car.

 

Check the air pressure in the tyres and top up with air if needed. The correct pressure ensures that you get the best performance from your tyres. It also reduces the rolling resistance, which saves you money on petrol. You will also have even wear and the tyres will last longer. Safety aspects are also improved as you will have shorter braking distance and better control over your car while driving. When driving on wet roads it is important that your tyres are able to push away sufficient amount of water to avoid aquaplaning.

 

How summer heat will impact your car

There are few items to make sure the you acknowledge during the summer when it comes to your car and your to your safety. Take measurements to ensure that your car and your summer tyres are able to take the heat. There has been some reports lately in social media accord to a UK magazine , that you should avoid filling up your tank during hot weathers, as the car might explode. This is of course not correct, the tank has been designed to handle any gasoline vapour.

 

Windshield

The windshield can crack if it is exposed to direct sunlight on scorching days. This is due to the fact that the glas will expand, which can cause cracking. So a good tip is to try to park in the shade, which should anyways be preferable once you get back into your car.

 

Sun and Heat Effects on Summer Tyres

The heat has a negative effect on tyres. The tyre pressure increases with increased heat, which can lead to higher wear. You also have the impact that the tyre starts to dry out, due to oils in the rubber will evaporate. Optimally you should have a dedicated summer tyre for optimal performance during this period and under no circumstances should you drive on winter tyres during the summer period.

 

Effect of sunlight on tyres
Summer tyre

Direct sunlight causes the UV to break down the tyre, so try to park in the shade and also do not store your winter tyres out in the sun. They should be stored safely in a dark cool place.

 

Impact on the interior

Leather seating is negatively affected by direct sunlight as well as heat, as the leather dries out. To prevent this, use leather conditioner on a regular basis.

 

The dashboard tends to be exposed to direct sunlight, to ensure that it doesn’t change colour, make sure to also use appropriate interior cleaning products.

 

Batteries and heat

The batteries last shorter time in hot conditions. It has been reported that approximately 15% of the breakdowns during the summers are due to battery problems. To avoid this make sure that that you enough distilled water in the battery.

 

Conclusion

For when you are not driving, it is always best to keep the car out of the sun and preferable park it in a garage. The tyres are affected by the heat and as being a big part of the car’s safety. It is always important to keep the tyres in good condition. Check that you have sufficient tread depth and your tyre pressure is correct as per the car manual.