Are your tyres road-trip ready?

Checking 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

REDUCE YOUR RISK OF WATER DAMAGE

WITH RACT INSURANCE

Water-related damage to properties is more common than you might think, and can be an inconvenient and costly problem. Follow these simple tips to keep your most valuable asset safe and dry.

Maintain seals on skylights, external vents and solar panels to keep them watertight. Keep your gutters clean and free of obstructions.

Regularly check overflows on toilets, sinks, baths and water tanks. Insulate and/ or secure pipes in vulnerable or exposed areas.

Regularly clean filters and consider annual servicing on your heat pump to avoid leaks.

Keep a close watch over a running bath or sink. Every 2 years or so check that seals around baths, showers and sinks are in good condition and watertight.

If your roof is older or weathered, consider having it inspected by a reputable repair and maintenance service.

Ensure that pipes and flexi hoses connected to major appliances and sinks are secured and in good condition.

Have your hot water cylinder serviced and cleaned once a year. Install water pressure reduction valves at the mains or to plumbed appliances.

Turn off water supply if property is to be unoccupied for an extended period of time.

Experiences

We absolutely love showcasing our beautiful island state. It’s time to get out there and explore our own backyard, support local and celebrate all things Tassie.

Pierre Destribats