Tyres are one of the most critical components of any vehicle, providing the necessary traction, stability, and safety. Yet, they often go unnoticed until an issue arises.

Proper tyre maintenance is essential not only for extending the lifespan of your tyres but also for ensuring a safer driving experience.

To keep your tyres performing optimally throughout the year, consider these essential maintenance tips.

1. Regularly Check Tyre Pressure

One of the easiest yet most effective tyre maintenance practices is regularly checking your tyre pressure.

Both underinflated and overinflated tyres can negatively affect your vehicle’s performance, handling, and fuel efficiency.

Tyre pressure can fluctuate due to changes in temperature, which makes it especially important to check it more frequently during seasonal changes.

Underinflated tyres are more prone to wear and damage, while overinflated tyres may lead to a harsher ride and increased risk of a blowout.

To ensure your tyres are properly inflated, refer to the manufacturer's recommended tyre pressure, which can typically be found on the driver’s door frame or in the owner’s manual.

2. Rotate Your Tyres Every 8,000 to 10,000 Kilometers

Tyre rotation is a crucial step in achieving even tread wear and prolonging tyre life.

Front tyres often wear out faster due to the additional stress from steering, braking, and the engine’s weight.

To counteract this, it’s recommended to rotate your tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every six months, whichever comes first.

Rotation involves swapping the front tyres with the rear ones, and sometimes changing the tyres’ orientation (such as from left to right), depending on the wear pattern.

This practice ensures that all four tyres wear evenly, providing better handling and extending the overall life of the tyres.

3. Monitor Tyre Tread Depth

Tyre tread depth is a key indicator of tyre health and performance.

Worn-out tread can significantly reduce your vehicle’s traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions, making it more difficult to control your car.

To assess your tread depth, you can use a tread depth gauge or perform a simple “20-cent coin test.”

 Insert the coin into the tread groove — if the platypus’s beak is fully visible, it’s time to replace your tyres.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.5mm in most regions, but replacing your tyres when they reach 3mm can greatly improve safety and handling, especially in adverse conditions.

4. Balance and Align Your Tyres

Proper wheel balancing and alignment are essential for a smooth and safe driving experience.

If your tyres are out of balance, you may notice vibrations in the steering wheel or uneven wear patterns.

Wheel balancing ensures that the weight is evenly distributed around the tyre and wheel assembly, minimizing vibrations and maximizing comfort.

Similarly, incorrect wheel alignment can cause your vehicle to pull to one side, uneven tyre wear, and reduced fuel efficiency.

It’s a good idea to have your wheel alignment checked every 12 months or if you notice uneven tread wear, a crooked steering wheel, or your vehicle veering off-course.

5. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Every vehicle has a maximum load capacity, which indicates the maximum weight your car can safely handle, including passengers and cargo.

Overloading your vehicle can put excessive pressure on your tyres, leading to overheating, increased wear, and a higher likelihood of a blowout.

Always adhere to the manufacturer’s load recommendations, which are usually listed in the owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door.

If you frequently carry heavy loads, consider investing in tyres specifically designed for heavy-duty use.

6. Inspect Tyres for Damage Regularly

Regular visual inspections can help you catch small issues before they become big problems.

Look for signs of damage, such as cuts, punctures, cracks, or bulges on the tyre sidewalls.

Foreign objects like nails, glass, or sharp stones can easily get lodged in the tyre and cause a slow leak or even a blowout.

If you notice any visible damage, it’s best to have the tyre inspected by a professional immediately.

Even minor damage can compromise the tyre’s structural integrity and put you at risk.

7. Store Spare Tyres Correctly

If you use seasonal tyres or have a spare set, proper storage is essential to maintain their quality.

Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Avoid placing them on concrete surfaces for extended periods, as this can cause dry rot.

Instead, store tyres in a tyre rack or on a clean, dry wooden surface.

If possible, keep them in airtight plastic bags to reduce exposure to moisture and ozone, which can degrade rubber compounds over time.

8. Replace Tyres When Necessary

No matter how well you maintain your tyres, they will eventually need to be replaced.

The average lifespan of a tyre is about six years, but factors such as driving conditions, climate, and maintenance can affect this timeframe.

If you notice any signs of excessive wear, cracks in the sidewall, or reduced performance, it’s time to consider getting new tyres.

Don’t wait until your tyres are completely worn out — driving on old or damaged tyres can compromise your safety.

Final Thoughts

Year-round tyre maintenance is not just about extending the life of your tyres; it’s about ensuring your safety on the road.

Regular checks, timely rotations, proper storage, and mindful driving habits can make a significant difference in tyre performance and reliability.

By following these essential tips, you’ll enjoy a smoother ride, better fuel efficiency, and, most importantly, peace of mind every time you hit the road.