An easy way to test this is to insert a match horizontally between the tread of the tire. If the game is level, the tread can still be good. However, if the match comes out of the tread, it`s time to replace it. A tire with an inadequate tread, cut, or otherwise damage reduces the tire`s ability to hold the road, which affects the vehicle`s braking system and increases the risk of the tire bursting while the vehicle is in motion. A common and extremely dangerous defect is an internal cut, sometimes caused when a tire hits a pothole, causing air to leak into the sidewall of the tire, causing it to swell. If the bulge bursts, the tire fails catastrophically. Many people are still unaware of the dangers of driving damaged or worn tires, but these are essential safety features. After all, they are the only thing that keeps your car safe on the road. The AA said: “Tyres are an essential safety feature of vehicles. They are the only thing standing between you and the road, and for this reason, it is important that their good condition continues to be good. Any bare or inflated or overinflated tires can be dangerous. The AA recommended: “If you are not sure of the correct pressure for your tires, there are several ways to check it. There should be a sticker on the car, usually in the driver`s door, indicating the correct inflation values. Alternatively, motorists can consult the owner`s manual or even visit a tire assembly center for advice.
Given the critical nature of tires, they should be checked regularly. Eight vehicles were used, including two identical vehicles from four different manufacturers. These vehicles were then used on different tracks in Gerotek to compare the handling of new tyres with used tyres from the same vehicle. In South Africa, the legal limit for tread is 1 mm. The tyres used came from four different tyre manufacturers, and the used tyres were skimmed to around 1.6mm, the legal limit in Europe. Paragraph 3.3.1.3. states: “It is recommended not to drive a vehicle with tyres which do not have a minimum tread depth of 1.0 mm in all major grooves over the entire width of their tread contact surface and over the entire circumference of the tyres, except in areas where tread or tie rod wear indicators (or both) are present.” The tread of a tyre shall therefore be measured in the main grooves of the tyres and in other areas where the tread wear indicators indicate that the tread depth is to be measured, as prescribed in ARP 007: 1992, “Maintenance, Maintenance and Use of Tyres and Rims of Motor Vehicles”, which was confirmed on 30.07.2002. If your car wobbles or pulls to the side while driving, you need to balance and align your wheels. Sometimes it`s very subtle, so be sure to check the balance and orientation of your wheels every 10,000 km or before any major rides.
This not only improves the handling of your car, but also extends the life of your tires. In addition, ignoring symptoms can be costly and even dangerous. Check all tires when filling your tank, Park your car with the front tires at an angle to more easily check the tread depth, If you use a certain gas station, use another machine to check your tires in case there is a constant problem with use, Check the tire pressure indicator in your owner`s manual or in your car, and pump your tires according to the load they will carry. Do not overpump or underpump your tires, if there seems to be a problem with a tire, have it taken care of immediately. If you are not sure, have it checked by a tire specialist, buy tires only from reputable tire dealers, not on the side of the road. Remember, a good deal can cost you more later, Make sure your tires are well balanced and wheel alignment is correct, Feel free to replace tires when they are worn The tire safety demonstration highlighted the need for better tire maintenance on vehicles, but also showed what can go wrong. if worn tires are not replaced. Car tyre safety remains a major issue which, if addressed effectively, can play an important role in reducing carnage on South African roads. 6 basic rules for tyre safety:1. Tyres should always be replaced with the same size designation recommended by the vehicle or tyre manufacturer. 2. The make, size and tread design of tyres shall be the same on all axles.3.
All four tires must be the same size, speed class and construction (radial or transverse). 4. Protection against the importation of end-of-life tyres, many of which cannot be retreaded but are retreaded and sold illegally. Also beware of counterfeit tires – illegal copies of reputable trademarks. It is recommended to always look for the AISA seal of approval.
