When was the last time you really looked at your tyres? Not just a passing glance while walking to your car, but a proper check-up? If you’re like most drivers, it’s probably been a while—until something feels off. But here’s the thing: your tyres are the only part of your car that actually touch the road, and they play a massive role in your safety, fuel efficiency, and overall driving experience.
So whether you’re getting ready for a long drive or just want to stay ahead of potential issues, here’s what you should pay attention to during a tyre inspection—no special tools needed, just a few minutes and a sharp eye.
Tread Depth: More Than Just Grooves
Tyre tread is what gives you grip on the road. Over time, the tread wears down, and when it gets too shallow, your car can lose traction—especially in wet conditions.
You can do a quick check using a 20-cent coin. Insert the coin into the tread with the platypus’s bill facing down. If you can see the bill, your tread is too low, and it’s time to think about replacing the tyre.
Another sign of uneven wear? If the inside or outside edge is more worn than the rest, it might point to alignment issues or incorrect tyre pressure.
Cracks, Bulges, and Bubbles: The Silent Warnings
Run your hand gently along the tyre’s sidewall. If you notice small cracks, bulging areas, or bubbles, that’s a big red flag. Cracks can be a sign of aging rubber or exposure to harsh conditions, while bulges and bubbles usually mean the internal structure is compromised—often from hitting a pothole or curb too hard.
These issues can lead to a tyre blowout, and nobody wants that, especially at highway speeds.
Tyre Pressure: Don’t Rely on Your Eyes
Tyres can look fine but still be under-inflated. Low pressure doesn’t just hurt fuel economy—it affects handling and increases the chance of a blowout. Over-inflated tyres aren’t much better; they wear out faster in the centre and reduce traction.
Check your pressure with a digital or manual gauge. The correct PSI (pounds per square inch) for your car is usually listed inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual. Make it a habit to check at least once a month—and always before a big trip.
Nails and Debris: Sneaky Troublemakers
You’d be surprised how many vehicles we tow for slow punctures that turn out to be from a nail or screw embedded in the tyre. These can go unnoticed for days until you’re suddenly dealing with a flat.
Take a slow, close look at the entire surface of the tyre. Look for any shiny objects or unusual spots. If you see something embedded, don’t try to pull it out yourself—it might be sealing the hole. Get it checked at a tyre shop as soon as possible.
Vibration While Driving? It Might Be Your Tyres
If your car vibrates or pulls to one side while you’re driving, your tyres could be trying to tell you something. It might be an issue with wheel balancing, tyre damage, or misalignment. Any of these can reduce the life of your tyres and affect your safety.
It’s easy to ignore small vibrations at first, but they can quickly lead to bigger problems if left unchecked.
Age Matters: Even If the Tyres Look Fine
Tyres degrade over time—even if they’ve never seen much road. Rubber breaks down naturally, and after about six years, tyres start to lose their strength. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres every 6–10 years, regardless of tread depth.
You can find the manufacturing date on the tyre sidewall. Look for a four-digit code like “2519” — that means the tyre was made in the 25th week of 2019. If they’re getting up there in age, it might be time to plan for replacements, even if they still look okay.
Tyre inspections don’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. Just spending a few minutes every now and then checking for tread wear, pressure, and visible damage can save you a lot of trouble down the line—not to mention make your drives safer and smoother.
At our towing service, we’ve helped plenty of drivers who never saw a tyre issue coming. So next time you’re parked in the driveway or waiting for your coffee to brew, take a moment to give your tyres a proper look. Your car—and your future self—will thank you.
If you are in Fawkner, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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