Hot weather tyre care – simple checks to keep you safe
We all enjoy a spell of warm weather, but long journeys, hot roads and a car full of holiday luggage can place extra demands on your tyres.
The good news is that a few quick checks can help you spot problems before they spoil your journey. TyreSafe recommends remembering A.C.T. — Air pressure, Condition and Tread depth. Here are our practical tips for looking after your tyres during the warmer months.
A is for air pressure — check when your tyres are cold
Air pressure is one of the most important things to check. Under-inflated or over inflated tyres can affect your steering, braking and grip, as well as causing faster or uneven wear.
Always check the pressure before driving, when the tyres are cold. Tyres warm up on a journey and this can give you a misleading reading. Use the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer, which you will usually find in the handbook, inside the driver’s door or by the fuel filler cap.
Heading away with extra passengers and luggage? Your vehicle may have a different recommended pressure for a full load, so check before setting off.
C is for condition — look for cracks, cuts and bulges
Heat and long journeys can expose weaknesses in a tyre that is already worn or damaged. Take a moment to look around every tyre and check the tread and sidewalls.
Be on the lookout for:
- Cracks, cuts or splits
- Bulges or lumps in the sidewall
- Nails, screws or other objects in the tread
- Uneven or excessive wear
- A tyre that keeps losing pressure
Don’t forget the spare tyre if your car has one. There is nothing worse than discovering that your spare is flat when you really need it.
If you spot a bulge, exposed cords or serious damage, don’t risk driving on the tyre. Ask a tyre specialist to check it for you.
T is for tread depth — make sure you have enough tread
We may hope for sunshine, but British summer weather can soon change. Good tread is important when roads become wet because it helps the tyre clear water and maintain grip.
The legal minimum tread depth for cars and light commercial vehicles is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its full circumference. Check several places on each tyre because the tread may not be wearing evenly.
If your tread is getting low, it is worth having it checked before a holiday or long motorway journey rather than leaving it until the last minute.
Don’t overload your vehicle
Suitcases, camping equipment, bikes and extra passengers can add more weight than you might expect. Too much weight puts additional strain on the tyres and can affect the way your vehicle handles.
Check the maximum load for your vehicle, spread the luggage safely and use the correct tyre pressures for the load you are carrying. Caravan and trailer tyres also need checking for pressure, tread, condition and signs of ageing before a journey.
Pay attention to warning signs
Is the steering wheel vibrating? Is the car pulling to one side, making an unusual road noise or showing a tyre-pressure warning light? Don’t ignore it.
These signs may point to pressure loss, tyre damage, uneven wear or a wheel-alignment problem. Stop somewhere safe and check the tyres. If you are not sure what is causing the problem, have the vehicle inspected before continuing your journey.
Pop in for a free tyre check
Not sure whether your tyres are ready for summer? Bring your vehicle to our Newhaven workshop and our friendly team will check them for you. We offer honest advice and will only recommend replacement tyres when they are unsafe or illegal.
Arrow Tyre Services can also help with tyre fitting, puncture repairs, wheel balancing and wheel alignment, helping you enjoy a safer and smoother drive.
Pop in to 57 High Street, Newhaven, East Sussex, BN9 9PA, or call us on 01273 515128 for a free quote and fast, friendly service. Out of hours? Use our contact form.
Enjoy the sunshine and drive safely!
