easy-read 3 minutes
Let’s face it—tyres are one of the most overlooked parts of a car. Most of us don’t give them a second thought until we hear that dreaded thump-thump-thump or notice a flat on the side of the road.
But here’s the thing: taking care of your tyres doesn’t just save you money—it keeps you safe, too!
Been in the automotive industry for years, we see it often enough form customers who didn’t realise their tires were bald to those who ignored a slow leak until it turned into a full-blown blowout.
Trust me, a little maintenance goes a long way. Here are five simple tips to keep your tires in top shape:
1. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
- Did you know that under-inflated tyres can reduce your fuel efficiency by up to 3%? Not to mention, they wear out faster and can even lead to a blowout.
- I always tell my customers to check their tyre pressure at least once a week, typically most of us use the petrol stations to do this, however if the petrol station has inferior air equipment, you could end up with incorrect tyre pressures (ask the bowser if the air system is good and accurate) if you not convinced pop in at our store at smarttyres.co.za and we will gladly assist.
- Remember the Spare (if you don’t have a spare, suggest u buy a space saver kit – can save your life not to mention the hassle of being stranded) check out spacer kits: https://smarttyres.co.za/shop/spare-wheel-space-saver-kit/
2. Check and Correct your Wheel Alignment
- A suggestion is to have the aligment checked and recalibrated every 3000-5000 kms, or when u see uneven wear on your tyres (front/rear). Often this is an alignment issue.
- At the same time, request a visual inspection of the under-carriage parts, no better time than now for you to receive a report on the status of your vehicle under-carriage.
- Remember to have the alignment done at a reputable outlet, ask the technician when last his aligner was calibrated and when last the system had a software update. You paying for it so don’t be shy asking!
- Request the printout after the alignment is complete and file it for future reference (top tip: scan or snap with camera phone). Ask what warranty u have on the alignment work done (important!)
3. Rotate your Tyres
Especially front wheel drive vehicles – do this every 3000-5000km’s or when u see uneven wear. Good time to strike a deal with the tyre shop to re-balance the wheels as well!
More advice: Avoid puddles
Is a puddle a puddle or a pothole in disguise? Rather avoid puddles or proceed slowly through the puddle.
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