5 Signs You Need New Tyres and How Peach Cars Can Help

Ever wondered when it’s time to say goodbye to your old tyres? It’s not just about aesthetics – your safety on the road depends on it. 

Think about it: your tyres are the only part of your car that actually touches the road. They’re your lifeline to grip, control, and safety. But like anything else, they wear out over time. And when they do, it’s not just an inconvenience – it’s a potential hazard.

So, how do you know when it’s time for fresh rubber? Don’t worry, Peach Cars, your trusted partner in the Sub-Saharan African used car market, is here to help you recognise the telltale signs.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key indicators that your tyres are past their prime. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to car ownership, these tips will help you make informed decisions about your vehicle’s safety and performance. 

Read on!

1. Tread Wear: Is Your Tyre Bald?

The tread on your tyres is crucial for grip. It’s the rubbery pattern that helps your car maintain traction on wet and dry roads. Over time, the tread wears down due to friction. 

If you can see the wear indicators – those little raised bars across the tread – it’s time for new tyres. A simple five-shilling coin (the 1995 small coin) test can also help. Insert the coin upside down into the tread with Daniel Arap Moi’s head facing you. If you can see the top of Moi’s head, your tread is worn and needs replacement.

You can also use a ruler to measure the depth. The legal and recommended tread is 1.6mm.

Uneven tread wear is another red flag. If one part of the tyre is significantly worn compared to others, it could indicate alignment issues or tyre balance problems. These issues can affect your car’s handling and fuel efficiency. 

So, if you notice uneven wear, get your car inspected by a professional and have your tyres realigned.

2. Bulges, Blisters, and Cracks

Tyres are under constant pressure. They expand and contract as you drive. Over time, this can lead to damage like bulges, blisters, or cracks. 

These issues weaken the tyre’s structure and can cause a blowout. If you spot any of these signs, replace the tyre immediately.

Sidewall damage is particularly dangerous. The sidewall is the tyre’s most vulnerable part. If it’s damaged, it can compromise the tyre’s integrity. Even small cuts or scrapes can lead to bigger problems. So, keep a close eye on your tyres’ sidewalls.

3. Tyre Pressure

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for safety and fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres can lead to increased wear, blowouts, and poor handling. Overinflated tyres can reduce traction and make your car more susceptible to punctures.

Check your tyre pressure regularly, especially before long trips. The recommended tyre pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb or in your owner’s manual. 

Use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressure when your tyres are cold.

4. Vibration and Noise

Notice new vibrations while driving? It might not be your suspension. Tyres with internal damage or uneven wear can cause:

• Shaking at certain speeds
• A constant vibration in the steering wheel
• An overall rougher ride

If you feel vibrations through the steering wheel or hear unusual noises while driving, well, those are your tyres talking and it could be a sign of tyre trouble. 

Unbalanced or worn-out tyres can cause vibrations. Cupping, which is uneven wear on the outer or inner edges of the tyre, can create a humming noise.

If you notice any vibration or noise, reach out to your mechanic. They will identify the problem and recommend the appropriate solution.

5. Age Matters

Did you know that tyres have an expiration date? It’s true! Even if your tread looks good, rubber compounds break down over time due to exposure to sunlight, heat, and ozone. 

The age of your tyres is stamped on the sidewall. It looks something like “DOT 2310.” The last two digits represent the week and year of manufacture.

If your tyres are approaching their sixth birthday, it’s a good idea to have them inspected for signs of aging. 

Dry rot, cracking, or hardening of the rubber are all indications that it’s time for new tyres.

Pro Tip: Rotate your tyres regularly. Regular rotation every 8,000 to 13,000 kilometres can extend tyre life, improve performance, and ensure even wear. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference.

Don’t Gamble With Your Safety

Apart from the above considerations, sometimes, the most severe signs are right in front of you. You can physically inspect your tyres for:

• Visible steel belts or fabric
• Tread separation
• Foreign objects embedded in the tyre

Any of these visual cues mean it’s time to replace them ASAP. Your safety is worth more than squeezing a few more miles out of worn rubber.

So, don’t wait until it’s too late. Regularly inspect your tyres, and if you notice any issues, don’t hesitate to get them checked by a professional. And when it’s time for new tyres, reach out to Peach Cars and we will make the process easy and hassle-free.Visit our website or contact us to learn more about our tyre services.