As the Easter long weekend wraps up and school holidays come to a close, many of us are returning from road trips across Victoria. Whether you ventured to the High Country, the Great Ocean Road, or simply enjoyed local drives, your car’s tyres have been hard at work. Now is the right time to assess their condition, especially if you drive a European vehicle. A car tyre check now could save your wallet later.
Post holiday tyre check
Long drives, varied terrains, and fluctuating temperatures can take a toll on your tyres. Factors like under-inflation, towing, overloading, and uneven road surfaces contribute to wear and tear.
It’s essential to inspect your tyres for:
- Tread depth: it is a legal requirement in Australia that all tread on a tyre must be a minimum of 1.5mm deep. We recommend you replace your tyres well before this point – generally once you reach 3mm depth.
- Uneven wear: this could indicate alignment or suspension issues.
- Cracks or bulges: signs of potential tyre failure.
- Proper inflation: maintains fuel efficiency and safety.
How to check tyre tread at home
Measuring tyre tread depth is straightforward. New tyres generally have a tread depth of 8mm, which will wear down over time.
Check the tyre tread wear indicator
Take a look at your tyres. If you can see the tread wear indicators on your tyre sidewall, it has worn down to its minimum depth and your vehicle is no longer roadworthy. Don’t risk driving on poor tread; call your roadside assistance provider for help.
The 20c coin trick
Bust open the piggy bank and grab a 20 cent coin. Place the coin in a groove. If the tread doesn’t reach the bill of the platypus, you’ve got less than 3mm of tread remaining – it’s time for new tyres! It’s a simple car tyre check that won’t break the bank…
How do I know what my tyre pressure should be?
While you’re inspecting your tyres for visible wear and tear, keep an eye on your tyre pressure. Having the correct tyre pressure can significantly extend the lifespan of your tyres, and is also really important for keeping your car running safely and efficiently. This can prevent blowouts, improve your fuel efficiency, and play an important role in staying safe on the road, particularly in wet conditions. Your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure is displayed in the owner’s manual, and often appears on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Why tyre maintenance matters for European cars
European vehicles like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen are engineered for performance and precision. Their advanced systems rely on optimal tyre conditions to function correctly. Worn or improperly inflated tyres can compromise:
- Handling and stability: affecting the vehicle’s responsiveness.
- Braking efficiency: increasing stopping distances.
- Fuel economy: leading to higher fuel consumption.
Safety implications of neglected tyres
Driving on compromised tyres isn’t just a performance issue – it’s a safety hazard. Statistics show that a significant number of accidents are linked to tyre-related problems. For instance, tyres with minimal tread depth can increase stopping distances by 11 metres in standard conditions, potentially leading to collisions. The condition of your car tyre tread can be the difference between a serious collision and a ‘close call’.
Cox Auto: your tyre specialists in South Melbourne
At Cox Auto, we understand the intricacies of European vehicles. Our tyre services include:
- Comprehensive inspections: assessing tread depth, wear patterns, and overall condition.
- Wheel alignments: ensuring even tyre wear and optimal handling.
- Tyre replacements: offering a range of high-quality tyres suited for European cars.
Our team is dedicated to providing safe, convenient, and cost-effective car tyre solutions tailored to your vehicle’s needs.
Schedule your tyre check today
If you’ve just returned home safe from the holidays, now’s the perfect time to make sure your tyres are safe, too. Don’t wait for a warning light or a close call. Proactive tyre maintenance ensures your vehicle remains safe and performs at its best. Book your car tyre check with Cox Auto and drive with confidence.
We offer complimentary replacement vehicles, Uber pickup/drop-off, and a free valet service, so you don’t have to worry about getting around while your car tyre check is underway. We also offer flexible payment options, a complimentary car wash, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our goal is simple: to provide outstanding service that makes you confident whenever you visit us.
