TYRE CARE AND SAFETY

Checking the Tread Depth

• The tread depth should be measured in the principle grooves. These are the ones which contain “tread wear indicators”, which are raised sections in the base of the groove. They are usually 1.6mm to 2mm above the base of the groove.
• Measure each groove depth across the tread width and in several places around the tyre circumference.

Braking distances on wet roads increase as the tread pattern depth reduces. To maintain an adequate safety margin we support the advice given by road safety organisations and leading European car manufacturers who recommend replacing tyres when the tread depth reaches 3.0mm. Please see Camberwell Tyrepower for assistance and advice.

Checking Tyre Pressures

• The recommended tyre pressures for your vehicle will be found in the vehicle handbook or on a placard mounted on the vehicle e.g. behind the petrol filler cap or on the driver’s door pillar.
• Always check pressures when the tyres are cold, never adjust tyre pressures during or immediately following a journey.
• Check tyre pressures every two weeks and adjust when necessary. Always refit the valve cap.
• Low tyre pressures reduce the tyre’s performance and increase fuel consumption. It is advisable to obtain a reliable pressure gauge which can be purchased at most motorist centres at a reasonable cost.

Visual Inspection

• It is important to visually check the condition of tyres on a regular basis.
• Lumps and bulges may indicate the tyre has been damaged internally. If there is any doubt as to the tyres condition then the tyre should be immediately removed from service until it has been checked by Camberwell Tyrepower, your qualified tyre expert.
• Any cut to the tyre, which is deep enough to reach the internal structure renders the tyre unsafe. It should be replaced or where appropriate repaired.

Tyres deteriorate with age and if cracking or crazing is present it may indicate that the rubber is perished and the structural integrity cannot be assured. The tyre should be immediately removed from service until it has been checked by Camberwell Tyrepower, your qualified tyre expert and if there is any doubt replaced

TIPS TO PROLONG THE LIFE OF YOUR TYRES

Check Your Air Pressure

Proper tyre inflation is essential for safe driving and long tyre life. It’s wise to check your tyres’ air pressure at least once a month with an accurate tyre pressure gauge. Be sure to check pressure while your tyres are cold and have not been used recently. Even driving a mile will cause your tyre pressure to increase and give you an inaccurate reading. Should you experience continuous loss of inflation pressure, it could be an indication of a possible tyre or wheel assembly problem. Consult Camberwell Tyrepower immediately if you encounter this situation. Check your tyre tread.

There are two popular ways to check for signs of tyre tread wear. Simply look at the tread wear indicator bar that’s moulded into your tyres. The bars are located at the bottoms of the tread grooves in several locations around the tyre. When a tyre is so worn that these bars become visibly flush with the adjacent tread ribs, it’s time to replace the tyre. Visit Camberwell Tyrepower for a free car safety inspection.

Know What Certain Wear Patterns Mean

As tyres wear, sometimes wear patterns emerge that can indicate problems with your vehicle or tyres. If you see any of these patterns, have your tyres checked by Camberwell Tyrepower.

Wheel Balancing

If your tyres are unbalanced, you’ll notice vibration. This can lead to driver fatigue, premature or irregular tyre wear and unnecessary wear to your vehicle’s suspension. Your tyres should be balanced when they are mounted on wheels for the first time or when they are remounted after repair. Check your tyre balance at the first sign of vibration or shimmy and visit Camberwell Tyrepower for wheel balancing.

Wheel Alignment

Your vehicle is properly aligned when all of its suspension and steering components are working smoothly and when its tyre and wheel assemblies are running straight and true. If you notice uneven tread wear, it could be due to a misalignment and your vehicle should be serviced by a professional at Camberwell Tyrepower.

Tyre Rotation

While many people are knowledgeable enough to rotate their own tyres, the procedure is especially quick and easy for a professional. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual will specify the proper rotation pattern and schedule for your vehicle. If no specific schedule is indicated, a good rule of thumb is to rotate your tyres every 10,000km. Take your car to Camberwell Tyrepower for tyre rotation.

Tyre Repair

Tyre repairs should be made by a trained tyre professional like Camberwell Tyrepower. Proper repair procedure includes dismounting the tyre from the wheel. This allows for thorough inspection of the tyre for damage, as well as the use of a patch and plug to repair any punctures that fall within the guidelines for repair.