Proper upkeep of your car's tyres is vital for safety, fuel efficiency, performance, and longevity. However, misconceptions about tyre care abound, potentially undermining your efforts. To empower you with accurate knowledge and ensure effective tyre maintenance, we've compiled and debunked some prevalent myths.
Dispelling Common Misunderstandings About Tyres
| Myths | Reality |
| Exceeding the Maximum Air Pressure Causes Tyres to Burst | Contrary to belief, surpassing the maximum pressure won't lead to blowouts. The sidewall number indicates ideal pressure, not a bursting point. Adhering to recommended pressure levels prevents excessive wear and maintains road contact. |
| TPMS Eliminates the Need for Regular Pressure Checks | Modern cars often omit spare tyres due to enhanced tyre reliability and decreased blowout occurrences, prioritizing space and weight reduction. |
| All Vehicles Come Equipped with Spare Tyres | Modern cars often omit spare tyres due to enhanced tyre reliability and decreased blowout occurrences, prioritizing space and weight reduction. |
| Tyre Rotation is Needed Annually | Regular tyre rotation, recommended every 4,800 to 9,600 km, prevents uneven wear, coinciding conveniently with oil change intervals. |
| New Tyres Belong Exclusively on the Front | Installing new tyres on the rear enhances stability, especially in wet conditions, thereby improving overall vehicle control. |
| Infrequent Wheel Alignment Suffices | Annual or 10,000 km wheel alignment upkeep preserves tyre health and vehicle performance, preventing issues stemming from misalignment. |
| Rear Tyre Changes Are Unnecessary | Replacing all tyres simultaneously ensures even wear. Prioritizing rear tyre replacement enhances stability, particularly on wet roads. |
| Inflate Tyres According to Sidewall Numbers | Follow manufacturer recommendations for tyre inflation, consulting your manual or door sill sticker for precise pressure guidelines. |
| Valve Caps Prevent Tyre Aging | Valve caps deter dust and water entry but don't halt natural air seepage. Regular pressure checks are essential for maintaining optimal performance. |
| Low Profile Tyres Guarantee Superior Handling | Handling improvements depend on various factors, including tyre width and tread design, not solely on profile height. |
| New Tyres Always Outperform Older Ones | Properly stored older tyres perform comparably to new ones if undamaged, offering a cost-efficient and sustainable option. |
| Underinflation Boosts Road Contact | Underinflated tyres wear faster and compromise road grip, necessitating proper inflation for optimal performance. |
| F1 Tyres Enhance Street Speed | While F1 tyres offer superior grip on tracks, they perform poorly on streets, particularly in wet conditions, due to minimal tread. |
| Spare Tyres Are Indestructible | Temporary spares require periodic checks and are not long-term replacements, gradually losing pressure over time. |
| Tyre Pressure Monitors Signal Replacement Time | Tyre pressure monitors track pressure, not tread wear or replacement needs, necessitating regular inspections for tyre health. |
| Tyre Rotation Equals Wheel Alignment | Tyre rotation and wheel alignment serve distinct purposes, with the former countering wear and the latter preserving suspension angles for safety. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, dispelling common myths surrounding car tyres is essential for maintaining optimal performance and safety on the road. By debunking misconceptions such as the belief that exceeding maximum air pressure causes tyre bursts or that tyre rotation equals wheel alignment, drivers can make informed decisions about tyre maintenance. Emphasizing the importance of regular pressure checks, proper inflation, and timely tyre replacements can significantly enhance vehicle performance and longevity. Understanding the realities behind tyre care ensures that drivers prioritize safety while maximizing the efficiency and lifespan of their tyres.
