7 Ways to Protect Your Tyres this Summer
Maintaining good tyre pressure is an excellent way to protect your tyres this summer.
How Heat Affects Tyre Pressure
Science has shown that tyre air pressure increases as the temperature rises, causing tyres to overinflate if they aren’t checked regularly.
For every 10 degrees the temperature rises, tyre pressure reacts by increasing 1 PSI. That may not sound like much, but since there’s usually only 30-35 PSI in a typical vehicle, a few extra pounds of pressure can have catastrophic results.
Overinflation puts tyres in danger of popping, as well as increased wear and decreased braking effectiveness.
Here are a few ways to keep your tyres in good condition throughout summer:
- As soon as the hot season begins, have your tyres checked by a mechanic to make sure the pressure is correct.
- Invest in a high-quality tyre gauge so you can accurately monitor your tyre pressure throughout the summer.
- Try to avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day.
- Park in the shade so it’s easier for your tyres to cool down.
- Before you start to drive, test the temperature of your tyres with your hand. If they’re hot, wait until they cool down.
- Driver slower than normal. Greater speed = greater friction = greater heat.
- Replace worn tyres. Thin tyres are more susceptible to blow-outs.