With the double-digit percentage increase in the rate of tires, it has become a matter of utmost importance to extend their life. To increase the longevity of the tires, we need to follow a regular care routine. This will not only help in saving money, but will also ensure safety. Few of them are – Keep them aligned is a significant requirement. If the tires point in or out, the edges get abraded faster.
Rotating the tires after every 10000 KM (or every oil change) increases their lifespan. Visually inspecting the tires help spot bulging edges which indicate low pressure. Digital gauges are available in the market, which should be used monthly to keep a check on the pressure. The tires should be observed frequently, to check for any cuts or holes as they can usually result in flat tires or leakage of pressure. Portable air compressors can be used to keep them suitably inflated for increased fuel-efficiency.
The tires should be cleaned thoroughly by using the right products. Potholes and damaged roads should be avoided. Driving cautiously and keeping a speed limit in mind is however one of the most important precautions.
These tips are good but incomplete and a little misleading. “Why!” you would ask.
Well tire dealers would advise you that the rubber components of tire are made to last 5 years. After that they became dangerous.
The lifetime of tires is always measured in how many kilometers it can last and not in years as some owners will drive a lot and others very little in a year.
To get more mileage out of tires the following factors will help:
Avoid sharp acceleration
Go slow around corners and don’t brake entering the corner or accelerate out of it if possible.
Don’t brake sharply unless absolutely necessary. Rather slow down gradually and leave enough space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you.
Check tire pressure regularly and stick to the manufacturers indicated pressures.(Do remember to also check the spare wheel)
Rotate wheels at periods as recommended by tire dealers
Always check the pressure when the wheels are cold.
Have the wheels balanced every 10 000 Km and the wheel alignment every 30 000 Km (Have both checked immediately if the car drag to the left or right as potholes, bumps, speed humps, etc. can lead to misalignment and out of balance of the wheels.)
Go to a reputable tire dealer for puncture repairs and not the Filling station around the corner. If forced to have a repair done at a local/nearby garage when on holiday have the repair checked out by a tire dealer when you get home.
Last Comment: A tire manufacturers engineer once advised in a motoring magazine that if one puts on new tires: Do not accelerate fast , brake sharply or exceed !)) km per hour for the first 2000 Km as the tire components finally cure and get tougher during those first Kms. It can add an extra 5 000 to 10 00 kms to the life of a tire!