As a car owner, SUV enthusiast, or commercial van operator, you understand the importance of maintaining your vehicle for safety, reliability, and performance. One critical aspect of vehicle maintenance is knowing when to change your tyres. In this post, we'll explore five unmistakable signs that indicate it's time for a tyre change.

Understanding Tyre Wear and Safety

Tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. They play a vital role in handling, braking, and overall safety. Ensuring your tyres are in good condition is paramount to your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

All tyres wear down with use. Factors such as driving habits, road conditions, tyre pressure, and alignment all affect the rate of wear. Regular inspections can help you identify when they've reached the end of their service life.

Sign #1: Tread Depth is Below the Legal Limit

The tread on your tyres provides the necessary grip on the road surface. Legal limits for tread depth vary by region, but a common standard is 1.6 millimeters. Use a tread depth gauge to measure your tyres' tread.

Driving with low tread depth increases the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads and can significantly extend braking distances, compromising your safety.

Sign #2: Visible Damage to the Tyre

Look for cuts, bulges, or punctures in the tyre. These can compromise the tyre's structure and potentially lead to a blowout.

Visible damage often indicates deeper problems within the tyre that can affect its performance and safety.

Sign #3: Tyres are Over 5 Years Old

Tyres age even if they're not being used. Rubber compounds break down over time, which can lead to reduced performance and safety.

The age of a tyre can be determined by the DOT code on the sidewall, which includes the week and year of manufacture.

Sign #4: Vibration or Unusual Noises While Driving

Excessive vibration or noise may indicate an issue with tyre balance, alignment, or internal damage.

If you experience persistent vibration or noise, it's important to have your tyres inspected by a professional to determine the cause and necessary action.

Sign #5: Poor Vehicle Handling or Increased Stopping Distance

Poor handling, such as the vehicle pulling to one side, can be a sign of uneven tyre wear or pressure issues.

An increased stopping distance may indicate that your tyres are no longer providing the optimal level of grip and need to be replaced.