When was the last time you gave your trusty tyres a good look? They might not be as glamorous as that shiny bonnet or leather interior, but they’re the unsung heroes of your motoring life.
Let’s deep dive into the world of tyres, and ensure yours aren’t just spinning their wheels.
The Basics
The numbers and letters embossed on the sidewall of your tyres aren’t just random gibberish – they hold important information about the tyre’s size, load capacity, speed rating, and other specifications. Let’s decipher this tyre code!
Take, for instance, a tyre marked as: 205/55R16 91W. Here’s a breakdown:
- 205: This is the tyre’s width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. So, the width of this tyre is 205mm.
- 55: This is the aspect ratio or profile of the tyre, presented as a percentage. It represents the height of the tyre sidewall as a percentage of the tyre’s width. In this case, the height of the tyre sidewall is 55% of its width, which equates to 112.75mm.
- R: This stands for Radial, which denotes the construction type of the tyre. Radial means the tyre’s layers run radially across the tyre. This is the most common construction for modern tyres. (Other less common types include ‘D’ for diagonal or bias-ply construction and ‘B’ for belted.)
- 16: This number tells us the diameter of the wheel in inches. So, this tyre is meant for a 16-inch wheel.
- 91: This is the load index. It’s a coded number that corresponds to the maximum weight the tyre can carry when fully inflated. For instance, a load index of 91 typically means the tyre can carry 615kg.
- W: This is the speed rating, which indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can carry the weight specified by its load index under specified conditions. ‘W’ corresponds to a maximum speed of 270 km/h.
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with these codes. Knowing how to read your tyre sidewall can be useful when you need to replace or choose new tyres.
Types of Tyres for Passenger Cars
Here are the common types of tyres you can find in South Africa:
Performance Tyres
- Made for high-speed and sporty driving.
- They offer excellent road grip and handling but may wear out quicker than other types.
SUV and 4×4 Tyres
- For vehicles that navigate challenging terrains like mud, sand, and rocks.
- They’re robust, with deeper treads for better grip.
Run-flat Tyres
- These allow you to continue driving for a limited distance even after a puncture.
- Especially handy for areas where immediate assistance might not be available.
Eco Tyres
- Designed for fuel efficiency.
- They have a low rolling resistance which means they require less energy (and thus fuel) to move.
Mud Terrain Tyres
- Specifically designed for off-road and muddy terrains.
- They have wide treads to prevent mud clogging.
All Terrain Tyres
- Suited for both on-road and off-road driving.
- Offers a balance between the robust design of mud terrain tyres and the smooth performance of standard road tyres.
Reinforced or Extra Load Tyres
- For vehicles carrying heavy loads.
- They can handle more weight than standard tyres.
Always consult with a local tyre expert or dealer to get the most suitable tyres for your needs.Top of Form
What to Look for When Buying New Tyres
- Tread Depth: In SA, the legal minimum is 1mm, but it’s recommended to replace at 3mm. It’s the difference between stopping in time or having a close shave with that pesky warthog crossing the road.
- Size Matters: Always check the sidewall of your old tyre for the right size. It’s not just a bunch of random numbers; it’s your tyre’s identity!
- Load Rating: Every tyre has its weight limit. Overload and you’re looking at a blowout faster than a potjie pot boils over.
- Speed Rating: Like a Springbok chasing a rugby ball, know how fast your tyres can safely go.
- Fuel Efficiency: A tyre’s rolling resistance can impact your fuel efficiency. An eco-friendly tyre means fewer stops at the petrol pump.
Avoid These Tyre Traps
- Bargain Basement Buys: Beware of deals that seem too good to be true. Always opt for reputable brands. Remember, cheap now could mean expensive repairs later.
- Mismatched Tyres: Like mismatched socks, it’s a no-go. Different tyre types can mean uneven wear and an unstable ride.
- Old Stock: Tyres have a shelf life, even if unused. Check the manufacture date to avoid buying old stock.
Caring for Your Tyres
Rolling down the highway, driving through a storm, or parking at your local mall—your tyres are what separate you from the road. Good tyre care ensures that you maintain optimal traction, fuel efficiency, and overall safety. But what does proper tyre care entail?
- Regular Checkups: Give them a glance every fortnight. Look for uneven wear, punctures, or any other visible damages.
- Tread Depth: The tread gives your car grip. Use the penny test or a tread depth tool. If the tread is too low (below 1.6mm), it’s time for a replacement.
- Proper Inflation: Under or over-inflation can lead to quicker wear and even damage. Remember, air is free at petrol stations!
- Temperature Effects: Tyre pressure can change with temperature fluctuations. For every 10°C change in temperature, tyre pressure can change by about 1 psi.
- Balancing and Alignment: Every 10,000km or so, ensure your wheels are aligned and balanced. It prolongs the life of your tyre and gives a smoother ride.
- Inflation: Over or under-inflated tyres can lead to uneven wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and poor handling. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month.
- Rotation: Swap your front and rear tyres around occasionally. This ensures even wear and a longer lifespan for all your tyres.
- Alignment: If your car is pulling to one side or if you’ve hit a major bump, check the alignment. Poor alignment can cause rapid and uneven tyre wear.
- Age: Tyres degrade over time, even if they aren’t used. Most experts agree that tyres should be replaced every six years at minimum, regardless of wear.
Your car’s tyres are its shoes. Just as you wouldn’t wear worn-out shoes to run a marathon, you shouldn’t drive on worn-out tyres. Regular care not only extends the life of your tyres but also ensures that your car is safe, efficient, and performing at its best on the road. So, remember the saying: take care of your tyres, and they’ll take care of you. Safe journeys!
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