With rising costs, petrol hikes, load shedding and generally tough economic times, consumers are looking for ways to cut back on costs.
“Cutting back on car maintenance and especially tyre replacement should not be an option,” said Jakkie Olivier, CEO of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI).
There is a direct correlation between the condition of tyres and road deaths. Road safety should be a priority for all motorists despite the economic conditions. Roadworthy vehicles will increase road safety so we want to urge motorists and fleet owners not to skimp on tyres.
Tips to keep in mind
Hedley Judd, director of the Tyre Dealers’ and Fitment Centre Association (TDAFA), offered some basic tips on how to keep tyres in good condition and when they should be replaced.
• To keep tyres in good condition they should be rotated after every 7 000 to 10 000km; 8 000km is generally optimal. He recommended that the tyres are balanced, rotated and aligned.
• The tyre pressure should also be checked every 10 to 14 days. Tyres are porous so they leak air. That’s why it’s important to check the pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s specifications. Don’t adjust a tyre’s pressure when the tyre is hot. Generally, a tyre will heat up after about 10 minutes of driving at an average speed.
• The spare tyre should be checked as often as the other tyres but realistically this isn’t going to happen so once a month is good.
• When it comes to replacing tyres, don’t even consider a second-hand option. Firstly, you have no idea or guarantee of what the tyre was subjected to before you came into contact with it. Secondly it always works out cheaper in the long run buying a new tyre. Second-hand tyres will need to be replaced much quicker and you can end up paying four-times more in the end.
• Don’t go for a budget tyre. Rather get several quotes and go for a reliable brand.
“Motorists also need to remember that the condition and life of a tyre is affected by driver behaviour. Harsh braking, hard cornering, speeding and so on all have an effect on the tyres,” said Judd.
Olivier said checking your tyres regularly needs to be a priority.
“Don’t put it off. If you need to replace tyres but are short on cash speak to your mechanic or tyre supplier and find out what your options are.”
