Choosing the Right Castor Wheels

3 Tyre Preparation Tips for a Long Road Trip

16 December 2020

Erika Matthews

Millennials are changing the travel industry thanks to the generation's appreciation for an adventurous travel experience. Road trips allow millennials to explore off the beaten tracks and local sites on their terms.  If you plan to go on a road trip, you need your car's tyres to be ready for the action. However, most road trip drivers don't think they need to prepare their vehicles for a road trip just because it is performing optimally from home to the city and back. Here are a few tips for preparing your tyres for an epic adventure.

Inspect Tyre Treads

The depth of tyre treads indicates the condition of the wheels. Tyre treads provide traction, which allows your car to stay on the road even in slippery conditions. Tread depth is crucial for your safety since you risk losing control of a vehicle if the depth is not adequate, Moreover, travelling with shallow tyre treads is illegal and can land you in trouble with the authorities. Therefore, if you plan to go for a long road trip, it is paramount to inspect the tyre tread depth. The best way to do it is by using a tread depth gauge.

Inspect Tyre Pressure

Tyre manufacturers advise drivers to inspect the pressure at least once per month. However, if you are going for a long road trip, it is advisable to allow a car to rest for at least 3 hours—to allow the tyres to cool down—before inspecting the pressure. Typically, you find the recommended tyre pressure on a car's manual, doorpost, or gas tank lid. Therefore, there is no excuse for not filing your tyres with the optimal pressure before a long trip. Although the rear and front tyres might have different pressure ratings, ensure that it the same for wheels on the same axle. Most importantly, valve caps must be tight enough to prevent dust, dirt, and air leaks. 

Inspect the Spare Tyre

Nightmare stories regarding spare tyres are not strange among road trip enthusiasts. It is attributed to the assumption that spare tyres remain in mint condition and do not need an inspection. However, tyres age and need replacing if not used for a long time. Therefore, once you have inspected all your tyres for pressure and wear, please proceed to the spare wheel and give it a thorough examination. Inspect valves, treads, rims, and general wear and tear signs. Carry a spare tyre for a road trip if you are satisfied with its condition.

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