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IT doesn’t matter how fast and sporty your car is, without decent tyres you will be only be racing to tragedy.
Jeff Osborne, head of Gumtree Auto, said tyres not only affect the comfort of your ride but are the first line of defence.
“Tyres are important during South African winters when ice appears on the Highveld roads, rain – hopefully – drenches the Western Cape and the potholes all over our roads get bigger and deeper.”
Tyre maintenance tips
- Get your tyres checked at a tyre dealer every six months but always before a long journey.
- Most dealers will show you where and how a tyre is wearing out. If you doubt their motivation, get a second opinion.
- If your vehicle is shuddering or running strangely, it’s probably a tyre or alignment problem – check it out urgently.
- If you’re worried about your tyres, insist that the dealer raises the vehicle and checks thoroughly before giving you the okay because a dangerously worn section on the inside can be missed on a ground inspection.
- Invest in decent tyres that are the correct size for your vehicle. Although you may feel shocked at the price of quality tyres, it’s better to pay more for peace of mind. Shop around but always compare the same tyres.
- Get your wheels aligned regularly – it will save their life.
- Drive to protect your tyres – don’t push your vehicle fast on rough roads or potholes. Hitting speed bumps or ramping up kerbs affects tyres and wheel alignment.
