ARE YOUR TYRES ROAD-TRIP READY?
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hecking the condition of your tyres all year round is important, but it’s especially important if you’re heading off on a road trip. It can be difficult to know what to look for when checking your existing tyres or buying new ones, so here are some things to consider before you head off. Tyre pressure Check your tyre pressures regularly with a quality tyre pressure gauge at home or at the service station. If you don’t check the pressure regularly you could be using more fuel than needed, the handling of your vehicle could be affected or the overall life of your tyres could be reduced. We advise using the maximum recommended tyre pressure indicated on the tyre placard or in the owner’s manual. Wear and tear Check the entire contact surface of the tyre, as well as the inside and outside edges for any unevenness or unusual wear and tear. Turning your front wheels to full lock in both directions
can make this step easier for the front tyres, but you might have to kneel down to check the rears. You should also check the sidewalls for any damage. If you come across anything unusual, have your tyres checked by a professional as it could point to a range of problems such as inadequate pressure, suspension or wheel alignment issues. Your tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.5mm. Worn down tread is dangerous, especially on wet roads or if you need to brake suddenly. If your tread has worn down to the tread wear indicators (the small pieces of rubber running across the width of your tyre) or on the edge of the outside wall, or it’s getting close, you should have your tyres replaced. Rotate your tyres between the front and rear of the car to even out wear, as the front tyres are generally the first to wear out. It’s also a good idea to check the condition and level of inflation of your spare tyre regularly.
New tyres If you need new tyres it’s important to buy the right ones. Every car has a tyre placard stating the right size, recommended pressure, speed and load ratings. Buying the wrong size may have consequences, including the calibration on your speedo. It’s also advised to stick with a known brand. Tyre diameters are measured in inches, while tread is measured in millimetres. A percentage is also included in the measurement. For example, a tyre size of 215/65R16 95H means the tread width is 215mm, the sidewall height is 65% of the tread width, and the wheel diameter is 16 inches. The ‘R’ shows that it is radial ply construction, and the 95H is the load capacity and maximum speed rating. When replacing your tyres, try to do all four at once. We know it’s an expensive exercise, but it will save you in the long run. If you can’t afford to replace all four tyres, try to do at least two.
RACT MEMBERS CAN RECEIVE DISCOUNTS ON TYRES. VISIT RACT.COM.AU/MEMBER-REWARDS/CARS-AND-DRIVING
Show your RACT membership card and save when you choose one pair from the $149 range or above Book an eye test online In store only. Price includes standard single vision lenses. Discount available on the frame, lenses and lens options. Excludes reglazes and safety eyewear. Present your valid Auto Club card to redeem. Offer available to primary card holder and one immediate family member. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer including two pairs for one low price. S0241_RACT
JULY 2020
Journeys 29
