While driving day-to-day, we rarely pay much thought to the vehicle which we rely upon. In reality, a car can be the most important link in our chain of resources, so it’s absolutely vital we give it the care and attention it so often needs.

With this in mind, what do you think is the only point of contact between you and the road when you’re hurtling down the highway at ungodly speeds? If you guessed tyres, that’s correct! Your tyres are the only thing keeping you firmly planted to the road, so caring for them is probably one of the most important responsibilities of being a motorist.

It is easy for new or younger drivers to overlook their tyres as they haven’t experienced the general wear and tear that can take place over a series of months and years and this problem is further compounded by drivers who neglect to have their vehicle regularly serviced.

Neglected tyres can lead to balding or tyres with uneven wear and this can significantly affect your car’s ability to handle the road, as well as potentially increasing your stopping distance.

Here are a few helpful pointers to ensure your tyres stay in tip top condition:

• Check your tyre pressure at least once a month; this need only take a few minutes but will slow down the rate of wear and tear on your tyres, as well as improving their traction on the road and even increasing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
• While checking the pressure, be sure to also keep an eye on the amount of wear on the tread depth, which should be no more than 1.6mm. Many tyres are now equipped with tread wear indicators so you can easily see how close you are to needing replacements.
• When fitting new tyres, it is best to connect them to the rear axle first as this is not connected to the steering and it can be harder to determine their traction. Having a firm grasp on your front wheels will afford you better overall handling in all situations, including wet conditions and emergency stops.
• If you determine one of your tyres needs to be replaced, you should always begin by speaking to a tyre specialist who will be able to remove the tyre from the wheel and assess for any internal damage. Having a professional perform these checks will give you much greater peace of mind and ensure the safety of you and your family.

If you’re still not sure how best to take care of your tyres, you might like to consider speaking to a specialist over at Bartons Bayside. With over six decades of experience as one of the most successful family-owned car dealerships in Brisbane, Bartons’ dedicated staff will be able to advise you on the best practices for tyre care as well as advising on which brands are most suitable for your vehicle.