If you are a new car owner, you might already be asking yourself: When is it time to change my tyres?
Well, if your car is brand-new, the good news is that you probably won’t have to for the next three years or 30,000km.
But if you’ve had your car for a while now but haven’t been paying attention to your tyres, give them a once-over.
If you see any of these three signs, it is time to change your tyres – ASAP!
1) CRACKED SIDEWALLS
Cracked tyre sidewalls are going to result in a flat tyre at best, and tyre failure at worst.
If you see a crack like the one in the above image, it is time to change your tyres!
Cracks like these cannot be repaired. If anybody tells you differently, they are out to cheat out!
2) BULGES ON YOUR TYRE SIDEWALLS
Bulges on the sidewalls are not normal and they are not going to go away. Don’t let anybody tell you differently!
The bulges are caused by a weakened sidewall. And when the sidewall is weakened, a blown tyre or tyre failure is going to follow.
Head to your nearest tyre shop immediately.
3) OVERLY WORN OR BOTAK TYRES
If your tyre tread looks like the one in the above photo, change your tyres immediately!
As the tread depth becomes shallower, your tyres’ ability to cut through or displace water is lessened.
If you had tyres like these during a thunderstorm, you risk getting into an accident because of aquaplaning.
In Singapore, the minimum tread depth is 1.6mm as required by the Land Transport Authority.
WHY TYRES MATTER
Tyres are so important because they are your car’s only constant connection to the road.
They are expected to grip, displace water, handle and stop the vehicle. They lead a tough life.
This is what happens when a tyre fails:
Neglecting your tyres can lead to life-threatening tyre failure.
Why did my steering wheel feel like it was “detached” from the tyres?
