As road trips grow in popularity, ensuring vehicle safety is more critical than ever, especially when it comes to tyres. Proper tyre care not only ensures a smoother ride but also plays a vital role in preventing accidents and breakdowns. Ryanie for Tyres has the tips you need. Before setting out on a long journey, checking your tyre pressure is one of the most important steps.
The recommended pressure for your vehicle can typically be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. Maintaining correct tyre pressure optimises fuel efficiency, enhances handling, and reduces the risk of tyre blowouts. It’s important to check tyre pressure before each trip and periodically during long journeys.
Tyre tread depth is another critical factor in ensuring road safety, especially during a road trip. Most tyres come with built-in tread depth indicators, and for safe driving, your tyres should have a tread depth above the minimum legal requirement of 1.5mm.
Having deeper tread ensures better traction and handling, particularly in adverse weather conditions. You can easily measure tread depth using a tread depth gauge, or you can visit a service station for a professional inspection. It’s also essential to inspect your spare tyre before hitting the road. Make sure it’s properly inflated and in good condition, as it’s your backup in the event of a flat.
In addition to a spare tyre, carrying a tyre repair kit is highly recommended for road trips. A comprehensive kit should include a tyre pressure gauge, a tyre inflator, and a sturdy tyre iron, as factory-provided tyre irons are often too short to provide the necessary leverage.
Familiarise yourself with these tools before you embark on your journey, so you know how to use them in case of an emergency. Warning signs of tyre pressure issues include dashboard alerts, noticeable changes in handling, or a rough ride. If you notice any of these symptoms, pull over safely, check your tyres with a pressure gauge, and inflate them if necessary.
Road hazards such as potholes, debris, and sharp objects can cause serious damage to your tyres. To minimise the risk, drive cautiously on poorly maintained roads, and keep a safe distance from vehicles that may kick up debris.
Additionally, it’s crucial to avoid overloading your vehicle, as exceeding the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) puts undue strain on your tyres, increasing the risk of blowouts and reducing handling and braking efficiency. Always check your vehicle’s GVWR on the door jamb label before packing for your trip.
During long trips, it’s also important to take regular rest breaks, ideally every 2-3 hours, to allow your tyres to cool down. Continuous driving, particularly in hot weather, can cause tyres to overheat, affecting their performance and longevity. If you experience a tyre blowout, stay calm, maintain control of your steering wheel, avoid abrupt braking, and steer to a safe location off the road.
After your trip, a post-trip inspection of your tyres is essential to check for any damage or wear caused during your journey. Look for punctures, irregular wear patterns, or debris lodged in the tread. It’s also a good idea to rotate your tyres after a long trip to ensure even wear. Knowing when to replace your tyres is equally important. Replace them when the tread reaches the minimum depth of 1.5mm or if you notice cracks, bulges, or if the tyres are older than six years.
By following these essential tyre care steps, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable road trip. Proper tyre maintenance not only protects you and your passengers but also contributes to better fuel efficiency and a smoother ride, giving you peace of mind as you hit the open road.
