How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Tyres
A properly cared set of wheels will last longer and improve fuel efficiency, saving you money on replacements and petrol.
With the cost-of-living crisis set to squeeze household budgets for another year, many UK drivers are looking for ways to reduce their motoring expenses.
One often overlooked area for potential savings is tyre maintenance. A properly cared set of wheels will last longer and improve fuel efficiency, saving you money on replacements and petrol.
Below, we share some key strategies to help you get the most mileage out of your tyres, helping you ease the strain on your wallet.
It is essential check your pressures at least once a month and before any long journeys.
Check pressure frequently
Underinflated tyres flex more as they roll, generating excess heat and wearing out faster. Overinflation is also problematic, causing uneven abrasion in the centre of the tread.
To avoid these issues, check your pressures at least once a month and before any long journeys. You'll find the correct pressures listed in your vehicle's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door frame.
Use an expert team to check the alignment of your tyres.
Rotate regularly
Front tyres handle most of the steering and braking, which means they typically degrade faster than rear ones. By rotating them between these positions, you can ensure more even erosion across all four, maximising their overall lifespan.
Most manufacturers recommend rotating them every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. However, it's best to read your vehicle's manual for specific guidance, as some high-performance cars may have different requirements.
Check wheel alignment
Misaligned wheels can cause tyres to drag sideways as they roll, leading to rapid and uneven damage. Signs of misalignment include your vehicle pulling to one side when driving straight or irregular wear patterns.
It's advisable to have your wheel alignment inspected by expert tyre fitters in Epsom or at a garage near you, annually or whenever you notice these symptoms.
Pay particular attention to the sidewalls during visual inspections as damage here can lead to dangerous blowouts.
Perform visual inspections
Catching and addressing minor issues early can prevent more severe wear and extend your tyres' life. Look for signs of inconsistent degradation, cuts, bulges or objects embedded in the tread. Pay particular attention to the sidewalls, as damage here can lead to dangerous blowouts.
Also, examine your tread depth using the 20p test – if the outer band of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread, it's time to consider getting a replacement.
Avoid overloading
Exceeding your vehicle's maximum load capacity puts excessive stress on your tyres.
Exceeding your vehicle's maximum load capacity puts excessive stress on your tyres, leading to increased wear and the risk of failure. This is particularly relevant for those who frequently carry heavy loads or tow trailers.
Always reference your vehicle's handbook for the maximum permissible weight and try to distribute loads evenly. Remember that this includes passengers, so be mindful when planning family trips with a fully loaded car.
An efficient driving style, can significantly extend your tyres' lifespan.
Drive gently
Your driving style has a significant impact on your tyres. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking and fast cornering all increase deterioration. So, by adopting a more efficient driving style, you can significantly extend your tyres' lifespan.
When possible, try to avoid potholes and kerbs, as impacts with these can cause internal damage that may not be immediately visible but can shorten lifespan.
Protecting your tyres can significantly reduce any unexpected accidents and also maintain the quality pof both your vehicle and your driving experience.