Here at Grattan Motors, we have been providing our clients with quality tyres for decades.
Not only do you supply quality tyres, but we also fit them to ensure you get the most wear possible. While we offer brand-name and budget option tyres at competitive prices, we also find ourselves answering various questions on tyres. To make this information more accessible, we have compiled some of the most common questions below.
What pressure should my car tyres be?
The recommended tire pressure for your car can usually be found in your vehicle's owner's manual or on a sticker located on the driver's side door jamb, glove compartment, fuel filler flap, or inside the fuel filler door. The recommended tire pressure is typically expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or bar.
It's essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for your vehicle, as different makes and models may have different tire pressure requirements. Using the correct tire pressure helps ensure optimal handling, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
If you cannot locate the recommended tire pressure, you can also check with a local tire dealer or mechanic who can provide the appropriate pressure based on your car's make and model.
It's worth noting that tire pressure can vary depending on factors such as load, driving conditions, and temperature. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure is essential for safety and optimal performance.
What can be affected by driving on under-inflated tyres?
When your tires are under-inflated, it can cause a few problems with your car. First off, it can make your handling feel off. You might notice that your vehicle feels less stable and doesn't grip the road as well, especially when you're making turns or trying to manoeuvre quickly.
Another issue is that under-inflated tires can increase your braking distance. That means it'll take you longer to come to a stop, which can be dangerous in emergencies.
Not only that but driving on under-inflated tires can also hurt your wallet. It reduces fuel efficiency because the engine must work harder to move the car. So you'll spend more money on gas in the long run.
And let's remember tire wear. When your tires are under-inflated, the sides of the tires flex more and get hotter. This can cause the tread to wear unevenly, making them less effective and needing to be replaced sooner.
But the worst-case scenario is a blowout. When under-inflated tires, they can overheat and fail, leading to a blowout. And trust me, you don't want that to happen, especially when driving at high speeds.
Driving under under-inflated tires also stresses your car's suspension and can mess up its alignment. This can affect how your vehicle performs and even shorten its lifespan.
So, to stay safe and keep your car in good shape, make sure you regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the level recommended by the car manufacturer. It's an easy and essential way to take care of your vehicle.
What is the minimum legal tread depth for car tyres?
The minimum legal tread depth for car tires is also 1.6 millimetres (mm) across the central three-quarters of the tread width and around the entire circumference of the tire. This requirement is in line with the standard tread depth regulations many countries follow.
As mentioned before, while 1.6 mm is the legal minimum, consider replacing your tires when the tread depth reaches 3-4 mm. This helps ensure optimal traction, handling, and road safety, particularly in wet or slippery conditions.
To determine the tread depth of your tires, you can use a tire tread depth gauge or look for wear indicators (also known as tread wear bars) that are typically located within the tire grooves. These indicators are raised sections spaced throughout the tire's tread, and when the tread wears down to the same level as these bars, it's a sign that the tire needs replacement.
Regularly checking and maintaining the tread depth of your tires is an essential part of vehicle maintenance to ensure safe and reliable performance on the road.
Still have questions about tyres, or are you looking for a new set at a competitive price? Please get in touch with our garage today.