Are your tyres in shape?

The school holidays are upon us, and with the easing of restrictions cars are returning to the roads.

Bridgestone, Carrington Road Toowoomba, are urging motorists to keep their families safe on the road these holidays by checking the condition of their tyres. When you consider your car is only connected to the road by the equivalent of one handprint of tread from each tyre, it really puts into perspective how important tyres are to your family’s safety.

Tyres should be checked regularly, especially when you have such precious cargo - your family. Worn tyres give less control over your vehicle and increase the time it takes to stop when braking, so it’s crucial that tyres are well maintained and in good condition.

Make sure there’s enough tread on your tyres, you can assess this by checking the tread depth indicators.

You might not notice these indicators when your tyres are new, but as these wear down these tread indicators or bars will be more visible.

These depth indicator bars are flat and run perpendicular to the tread and if you’re able to see more than one or two you should organise getting some fresh tyres.

Each groove must be at least 1.8mm, but if you find yourself driving regularly on wet surfaces, in this predicted season, it’s best that the depth be twice as much.

Even look for signs of irregular tread wear as this might indicate mechanical problems elsewhere.

Ensure the tyre pressure is set to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found on your vehicle’s tyre placard.

The tyre pressure can be easily checked and topped up at most petrol stations.

If your tyre pressure (PSI) has dropped by more than 25 per cent, there is a higher chance of a tyre-related accident occurring.

Making sure each of your tyres are fitted with valve caps will make sure the air is where it should be. Make sure to check the spare tyre - is it inflated and in good condition. Be sure to check your jack is functioning and in place. Lastly, regularly check for small cuts in the tyre sidewalls and any other foreign objects, such as nails and tacks, in the tread.

If you’re in any doubt as to what a tyre in good condition should look like, phone the Bridgestone Service Centre on 4633 0099 or drop in at 35 Carrington Road Toowoomba.

The team are happy to help ensure your tyres are trouble-free.