Tire mileage: five tips to reduce wear
One thing is sure: even if the tires are given due attention, they will need to be changed after a maximum of six years. Careful use should help achieve maximum tire life and use them for ten years.
1. Whether it’s spring or autumn, replace the tires
Switch immediately to summer tires in spring and winter tires in autumn. This protects the surface coating and extends the life of the tires. The reason is due to the temperatures and materials used in summer and winter tires. Winter tires wear faster in temperatures above seven degrees Celsius due to the softer rubber compound used. On the other hand, summer tires suffer below this temperature.
2. Check the air pressure regularly
Lower air pressure increases the risk of accidents and breakdowns and shortens the life of the tires. The ideal air pressure for the car is marked in the vehicle documents. Check it frequently and fix it if necessary. This reduces wear and tear on the running surface and in the internal parts of the tires. At the same time, it is also possible to visually inspect the surfaces of rotation. Are there any foreign objects such as nails or splinters in the tire? Remove them carefully and check the tire for damage.
3. Adjust driving behavior
The slower you drive, the lower the tire wear and tear rate. Most importantly, rapid acceleration and sudden braking cause more wear and tear. Attention should also be paid to artificial bumps. You should slow down and move in the same way: slowly and carefully. This means that the tires are not compressed as much as they would at higher speeds.
4. Park your car frequently
To those who believe that driving less protects their tire, the following can be said: this is only partially true. Even if the vehicle is not used for an extended time, the tire continues to be subjected to a load. Finally, the weight always presses down on the same point. The material wears out more quickly when pressure is applied. In particular, the edges of the curbs can cause damage. If the tire is on edge, then it is under particularly severe pressure.
Move the car from time to time and pay attention to the curb. A movement of a few meters should be enough to release the load from specific areas. This helps prevent wheel imbalance due to pressure on one side and flat spots
5. Store tires properly
Whether they are winter or summer tire, store them in a dark, dry, and cool place if possible. In particular, they must not be exposed to any light source. This ensures the flexibility of the material and the absence of cracks. A tire without rims must be stored hanging or upright. The complete wheels can also be stored lying on its side. Don’t forget to check your spare tire to ensure that it is in appropriate condition. Nothing is worse than having to change your flat tire and finding out that your spare tire is flat too!
How long should new tires last?
Even obviously, a new tire may already show signs of wear. Even if the tire was stored in the workshop, the properties could change. New rubber usually offers a better grip and is less sensitive. A new tire must therefore be no more than three years old.
Also read: how to cook frozen shrimp
