How to Check Your Tyre’s Tread: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tyres are often overlooked when it comes to vehicle maintenance, but they play a crucial role in both your safety and the performance of your vehicle. Neglecting tyre care—whether due to improper inflation, excessive wear, or degraded rubber—can result in accidents and costly repairs. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your tyres are in good condition is by checking the tread regularly. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Locate the Tread Wear Indicators

Modern tyres are designed with tread wear indicators—small raised sections of rubber located within the main grooves of the tyre’s tread. These indicators help you assess how much tread is left on your tyres.

To locate them, simply feel along the tread grooves of the tyre until you find the raised areas. If you’re having trouble finding them, you might need to roll the car forward slightly. Always make sure your car is turned off, the handbrake is applied, and it’s securely parked before you begin your inspection.

Step 2: Measure the Wear

Once you’ve found the tread wear indicators, measure the distance between the top of the tread and the raised indicators. This will give you a clear idea of how much life is left on your tyres.

The smaller the gap between the tread and the wear indicator, the more worn the tyre is. If the tread is flush with the indicator, it’s time to replace the tyre.

Step 3: Inspect All Tyres Inside and Out

Tyres don’t always wear evenly. Things like incorrect tyre pressure or misalignment can cause uneven wear. That’s why it’s important to inspect all tyres, paying special attention to both the inner and outer edges. The front tyres are particularly prone to uneven wear, so be sure to check them thoroughly.

For easier access to the inner edges of the front tyres, turn the steering wheel outward while the car is stationary.

Step 4: Look for Other Signs of Wear

While inspecting the tread, keep an eye out for specific patterns of wear that could indicate other issues:

• Underinflation: If you notice extra wear on the outer edges of the tyre, this could be a sign of underinflation.
• Overinflation: Excessive wear in the centre of the tread may indicate overinflation.

Also, be mindful when inspecting your tyres for damage like exposed canvas fibres, as this can cause injury.

Final Tips for Tyre Maintenance

• Inflation: Keep your tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
• Rotation: Rotate your tyres regularly to ensure even wear.
• Alignment: Have your wheel alignment checked to avoid uneven wear.

By following these steps, you can ensure your tyres stay in top condition, helping to maintain both the safety and performance of your vehicle.

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Credit: CarSales.com.au