AS the year-end holidays approach, anticipation builds for many who are looking forward to a well-deserved getaway with family and friends. For those embarking on long journeys by car this holiday season, prioritising tyre safety remains paramount.
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Super Tyres’ managing director Dean Horn said, “Your tyres are the only point of contact that your vehicle has with the road and therefore need to be in good working condition at all times to ensure your safety.”
To avoid any problems, Horn recommends using the PADD (pressure, age, damage and depth) checklist when evaluating the condition of your tyres.
Pressure: Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential, as tyres are designed to bear specific loads at specific pressures. Refer to your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure values, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s door, inside the fuel cap or under the bonnet. Ensure that your tyres are cold before checking pressure, as driving can heat up the air inside, leading to altered internal pressure.
Age: Inspect the date codes on your tyres to ensure they are not older than five years. As tyres age, the rubber gets brittle and dry which can lead to poor grip and possible casing failure. The week and year of manufacture can be found in an oval on the sidewall of the tyre; for example, a date code like ‘0219’ indicates manufacture during the second week of 2019, making it close to five years old.
Damage: Regularly inspect your tyres for wear and any signs of damage, including bulges, to prevent potential tyre failure. It’s imperative that all four tyres are the same size as specified by the vehicle manufacturer, along with having the same speed rating and load index – this includes your spare tyre.
Depth: Consistently check the tread-wear indicators on your tyres to ensure adequate tread depth. Worn tyres pose significant safety risks, particularly in wet conditions where the reduced grip can lead to aquaplaning and loss of control.
“If you are unsure about the condition and safety of your vehicle’s tyres, get them checked by a tyre specialist,” concluded Horn.
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