Our tips to make your tyres last longer
While we don’t routinely fit tyres at Hampton Motors, we do have relationships with some reputable local suppliers who can replace tyres at our workshops. This means we can offer impartial advice and tips to make your tyres last longer
With run-flat tyres being standard fit on my new cars, manufacturers have double or even tripped the price compared to standard radial tyres. It’s therefore vital that you protect your tyres, not only for safety but also to protect your bank balance.
Five tips to make your tyres last longer
Keep them inflated
Correct tyres pressure is a simple task that takes less than ten minutes. Many supermarkets have free tyre inflators and petrol stations it typically costs 50p for enough air to inflate all four tyres.
Under-inflated tyres mean increased rolling resistance which essentially means you’ll use more power to roll your car along the road. This means reduced performance, wasted fuel, reduced tyre life. You’re also more likely to have a blowout.
In contrast, over-inflated tyres can produce reduced performance and you used it reduced tyre life.
You can find the correct tyre pressures for your vehicle in the handbook or on a sticker in the fuel flap door, or near the drivers door. If you can’t find the future for your car, your dealer should be able to help.
Watch the tread
The tread on your tyres is the only thing between your car and the road. But tyres are one of the most common reasons for cars failing MOT tests. Traditionally tyres were rotated (swapped in a particular order) to maximise the life of each tyre, but this is no longer standard practice. Speak to your tyre manufacturer or tyre shop for specific advice about your tyres.
The minimal legal requirement of a tread is 1.6mm, but the suggested limit is 3mm. If you are caught driving with tyres tread below the legal limit, you could be given three penalty points or a fine of £2,500 per tyre.
How tyres wear is also impacted by how you driving and the mechanical condition of your car. If you can feel a knocking sound which could be a suspension joint, leaving it worse could mean you’ll also need to replace the tyre, due to uneven wear.
Keep it straight and balanced
If you feel a wobble through the steering wheel at 40-50 miles per hour, it could be that one of your wheel eights has fallen off. Tyre shops usually use stick on weights to balance minor differences between the tyre and wheel, but they can fall off with age.
In addition, if your car pulls to once side or wanders, you might need to have your tracking checked or adjusted. Both are important and often overlooked tips to make your tyres last longer
Slow and steady wins the (tyre) race
Not only is smooth, controlled driving safer and better for you fuel gauge, your tyres will also thank you. Keeping to a reasonable speed on corners, or heavy breaking will but additional stress on your tyres and in case wear. Also be aware of kerbs which can easily damage the sidewall of your tyres while parking.
Put your car on a diet
Unnecessary weight is also a factor that will increase your fuel cost and reduce the lifespan of your tyres. If you do local journeys, consider keeping the tank half fuel and tempting our unnecessary luggage in the boot.
How long do tyres last?
It’s difficult to put a number to this question as the answer depends on the quality of tyres, road conditions, car model and driving style.
Premium branded tyres can be expensive, but as a result, they offer better grip and overall performance compared with budget options. Continental or Michelin tyres can last up between 20,000 – 40,000 miles if looked after correctly.
We won’t get into details over whether the more expensive brands are worth it in this article, but do get in touch if you need independent advice.
Book a FREE Tyre Check at Hampton Motors
We hope that our tips to make your tyres last longer will help keep your car in top condition. Checking your tyres is part of every interim and major service at Hampton Motors.
Our team will carry out a tyre pressure check and inspect your tyres for the tread to ensure your tyres are safe and legal.
If you would like further advice, book your free tyre check online or get in touch today.