When learning to drive there are many rules and tips to ensure you are fully equipped when on the road. One thing that’s often missed is what you need to know about your car tyres! So here you’ll find a few key things you should know when learning!
-
What is PSI and what pressure should my tyres be?
Tyre pressure is a measurement of how much air is in your tyres, and correct pressure makes sure tyres wear correctly and maintain the required grip on the road surface… known as PSI (Pounds per Square Inch).
How often do you check your tyre pressure? This is something that should be regularly checked and not enough people do. It is critical you know what tyre pressure you require when you drive to avoid critical safety and economic consequences.
All tyre manufacturers recommend specific tyre pressures for different vehicles and all modern cars have a placard showing the correct tyre pressure for the tyres on the vehicle. The placard is most commonly found on the side panel inside the driver/passenger door, in the glove box, or under the bonnet of your car. The vehicle manufacturer’s handbook also highlights the recommended pressure.
Common consequences of driving with too low pressure means:
-
Poor wear and handling.
-
Affect braking in an emergency situation
Common issues of over inflated tyres:
-
They wear quickly and are harsh to drive with
-
Increased risk of impact fracture or causing the car to skid
Motor vehicle and tyre manufacturers recommend placard pressure in most circumstances. It is very important you know what PSI your vehicle requires. If you would like further advice on tyre pressure please contact your closest Tyres & More today - we would be delighted to assist and inform you.
2. What is my Tyre size and how do I read it?
The size of the recommended tyre is also noted on the vehicle placard, or located on the side of the tyre, known as the sidewall and is printed in a series of numbers and letters. It is important you are aware how to read this when purchasing or replacing your tyres. It will normally read in the sequence of the width of the tyre in millimetres, height of the tyre as a percentage of the width (known as the aspect ratio), the diameter of the whhel/rim in inches, load rating of the tyre and speed rating (which indicates the maximum speed for the tyre).
An example would be:
225 / 45R17 91V
225: Width of tyre in millimeters.
45: Height of the tyre (% of width).
R17: Diameter of the tyre’s inner rim in inches.
91: Load Rating of the tyre (91 = 615kg).
V: Speed rating - the maximum speed for the tyre at full load (v = 240 kph).
Still confused? Please contact Tyres & More for expert advice..
It is important to familiarise yourself with your specific vehicle to ensure when on the road you are as safe as possible. These are just a few key facts in regards to tyre knowledge to enhance your level of safety.
If you have any other questions or concerns around specific vehicles or other facts about safety and cars please do check out our website or get in touch today - we would be more than happy to help!