A guide for finding out the reality behind tyre myths? One would assume that it’s mostly outdated practices, but you would be surprised to know the number of car owners who are still following them. Regular car maintenance ensures you enjoy a long-lasting, high-performance, safe, and comfortable ride every time. This also includes caring for your Tyres, Bletchley.  However, there are sufficient myths around the topic of tyre maintenance to overwhelm car owners. Taking the right approach to maintaining and caring for them is important to avoid the mistakes that can cost you more, both financially and physically. Let’s look at some of the most common tyre maintenance myths and find out the reality behind them.

 

1. Change tyres when the TPMS tells you to? 

 

With every new and advanced feature in your car model, comes the myths and confusion. One of them is about the TPMS. The Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is found in most car models. Car owners believe that the TPMS tracks the schedule for your tyre replacement. So, they usually think a TPMS warning to be one for changing their tyre. This, however, is only a myth.

 

The TPMS, as its name suggests, is for only tracking your inflation levels. It does not alert you of the wear rate or the time to change your tyre. Hence, you should only invest in a replacement when the tread depth is borderline unsafe or when your car’s performance has significantly decreased.

 

2. The mechanic says “bald tyres”? 

 

Firstly, what are “bald tyres”? Most mechanics use this term to alert you that the tread depth has decreased significantly. Worn-out tread depths can lead to serious consequences while driving. Hence, experts advise changing tyres as soon as they reach an unsafe tread depth level. For most, it is 1.6 to 2.0 mm tread depth, with 1.6 mm being the minimum legal tread depth. So, a mechanic could suggest you to change your tyre due to the low tread depth level. However, you might not be facing any performance issues. So, what should you do?

 

It is not necessary to replace a tyre if your mechanic says so. Look out for any decrease in your car’s performance and efficiency. Besides, the Tread Wear Indicator (TWI) in most tyre will alert you of the right time to change them. A “bald” tyre should have the tread depth at levels with the indicator.

 

3. Are sets of four tyres a necessity? 

 

A number of online sites will suggest that you buy car tyres in sets of four. However, is it really necessary to do so? In most cases, this is only a myth or a marketing gimmick to lure you into buying more products.

 

For replacement, choose the balding ones or those that are severely damaged. For example, your front tyres might have remaining tread depth but the rear ones have suffered significant damage. In such cases, you should only replace the rear ones. Following this, you can save up on the extra costs of replacing the whole set.

 

4. Fit new tyres on the front rim always?

 

Another common myth among car owners is that the new set of tyres should be fitted on the front rim. It is common for car owners to assume that the front tyres are the most functional ones. Hence, they should always be in top condition. This is, however, a myth and should not be followed.

 

Contrary to assumptions, the rear wheels are the ones that add most stability to your vehicle. When your rear wheels are compromised, your car can easily lose its stability and control. Such situations usually lead to severe hazards on the road, including accidents and collisions. Driving with compromised rear wheels is especially dangerous on wet surfaces. This is because the front wheels will be dispersing water as usual, but the rear ones would be unable to. Worn-out rear tyres would then compromise the braking and steering efficiency. So, you will lose traction and grip while driving on damp surfaces.

 

5. Wheel alignments only when changing them? 

 

Wheel alignment is a one-time service, and this is a common belief among car owners. They usually believe that a wheel alignment is necessary only during a replacement. The importance of wheel alignment on car performance is usually ignored by drivers.

 

Experts suggest that a realignment service for your wheels is vital after every 6000 miles, or once every year, based on whichever happens first. A wheel alignment check is also significant before a long road trip to avoid any mishaps.

 

Top tips to maintain your tyres effectively. 

 

The myths are rampant, but knowing the right maintenance methods could save your hassles and money. Follow these simple tips to care for them:

 

• Rotate them regularly for optimal efficiency.
• Keep an eye on the tread depth and any visible signs of damage.
• 1.6 mm is the danger level for tread depth. Make sure you are changing them before the tread depth reaches beyond this limit.
• Maintain air pressure at all times. Monthly inflation checks are a must.
• Alignment, balancing, and fitting are as important as other maintenance tips.

 

Avoid myths on tyre maintenance and follow this guide to care for them effectively. Make the most out of each journey with routine servicing.