As COVID-19 restrictions ease around many parts of Australia, many of us will be looking to head out on road trips and enjoy the best the country has to offer. Whether you’re travelling 100 or 1,000 kilometres, there are several steps you can take to ensure your tyres go the distance.
Damage
If there’s damage to the sidewall or tread of a tyre, or if there’s a nail or screw embedded in it, it can cause a slow leak, eventually resulting in the tyre going flat; if you hit a speed bump or pothole too quickly, it can also pop the tyre quite dramatically. Before heading on the trip, check the tyre as closely as possible for any signs of damage to the tread and sidewall, as well as any nails, screws or rocks that may be lodged in the tyre. Maybe you need to buy new tyres because the damage can be irreparable.
Tread
While checking the tyre for damage, it’s also a good time to check the tread for signs of wear, especially if your tyres are several years old. Each time you drive your car on the road, the tyres start wearing down, little by little, which affects the amount of tread left on them. Tyres include small pieces of metal or hard plastic embedded in them known as tread wear indicators, which help you determine when the tyres should be replaced. When the level of the tread is at the same height as the indicators, then it is time to replace the tyres. Performing this check before you head off on holiday is an important safety measure.
Tyre pressure
Tyres need a certain amount of air in them in order to function properly; if they are over- or under-inflated, this can create issues for safety and comfort. How much air tyres need depends on the type of tyre and the make of vehicle; you’ll find a small metal plaque on the inside of the driver’s door with information on the recommended tyres and air pressures for your particular vehicle. While many service stations have air pumps with tyre-pressure gauges, it’s also possible to purchase a portable pressure gauge so you can check while you’re on the road. If you need any tyre repair, get it done sooner than later.
Spare tyre
Spare tyres are one of those things we don’t give much thought to – until we need them. While a new and unused spare tyre sitting in the boot won’t usually have any issues with its tread or sidewalls, it’s a good idea to check the air pressure and make sure it’s ready in case of emergency.
Wheel balance/alignment
If you’ve noticed issues such as the car pulling to one side while driving, the steering wheel shaking or appearing crooked when driving straight, or the tyres squealing while cornering, then it’s worthwhile checking if the wheels need to be balanced or aligned before you head off. Wheels that are unbalanced or misaligned can cause safety and comfort issues, and it can be a lot easier to address the problem before you leave, rather than when you’re already on the road.
If you’re heading away on a holiday during summer and want the convenience of a tyre specialist who comes to you, then give Jim’s Mobile Tyres a call on 13 15 46.
