Why Is It Important To Check Tyres Before a Road Trip?

Tyres are the only thing connecting your car to the road. And when you think about it like that, it’s no wonder they’re so important: without good tyres, your car won’t be able to stop, accelerate or corner well at all.

You can have the most advanced, most capable and most powerful car on the road, but if your tyres aren’t up to scratch, you won’t feel the benefit.

This applies even if you’re just driving around the corner, but if you’re going on a road trip, the condition of your tyres is even more important. Tyre issues that may not be immediately apparent at the beginning of the journey could easily rear their head by the end, so it’s vital that you check your tyres carefully before you set off. A few simple checks could help you avoid a breakdown or, worse, an accident.

What should I check?

First off, check the air pressure inside your tyres. If it’s too high or too low, you’ll not only lose grip and control, you’ll wear your tyres prematurely and hamper your fuel economy figures. How do you know what the right pressure is? The figure’s usually listed in your car’s owner’s manual or on a plaque in the driver’s door shut.

Next, check the sidewalls for any signs of damage. If there are any bulges or damage to the outer edge of the tyre, you should get it replaced as soon as possible. It’s also well worth checking the tread for signs of uneven wear; if the inside or outside of the tyre looks more worn, your wheel alignment may need checking.

Need a new tyre?

If you’ve spotted something concerning on one or more of your tyres, get in touch with the team at Vital Vehicle Care. As a trusted Peterborough mechanic, we can advise on the issue and replace the tyre if necessary.