How to check the condition of your tyres

When we think of our cars, we tend to worry about the condition of the body or of other elements we consider to be essential, but what about the condition and appearance of the tyres? 

Undoubtedly, you are aware that keeping your tyres in good condition contributes to the long-term health of your car and helps you avoid scares and accidents. So, you really should know how to perform proper, periodic tyre maintenance and detect any wear or damage to them, great or small. 

So, what makes tyres so important? Well, to begin with, they are the single point of contact between the car and the road, which makes them one of the most important aspects of road safety. The good news is that keeping them in optimal condition means following some simple guidelines. But you must be constant in order to avoid possible any mishaps that may come your way. 

Now, let's take a look below at three aspects to keep in mind regarding your tyres, so that you never forget that most of the time - if not always - your safety and that of those around you is in your hands.

1. Road safety. Keep your tyres in good condition: check them periodically. Their maintenance is an essential part of practicing proper road safety. Remember: driving should be a pleasurable activity, not a dangerous one.
   To that end, you must be sure your tyres grip the road well and guarantee safe driving and good braking (especially when needed most), and that the risk of aquaplaning is at a minimum. 
2. 2. Flat tyres. Tyres that are in bad shape can and will cause you to have a flat at any time (and, of course, there is never a good time for a flat). When the tread on your tyres is worn down or their pressure is incorrect, a puncture can occur when you least expect it. The age of your tyres is of great importance: the older they are, the more problems they can give you. Changing your tyres every 10 years is highly recommended. You will notice and appreciate the difference immediately. 
3. Crystallization or wear. Tyres are made of rubber, a material that can sometimes undergo a process that causes it to pass from an elastic state to a more rigid one. 

Normally, prolonged and continuous exposure to the sun and high temperatures can cause many vehicles to lose their grip on the road, resulting in a decrease in road safety. 

But, how do you go about checking for signs of crystallization? It is very easy to do. Try to sink your fingernail into the rubber of the tyre. Is it soft? If it is soft, they have not crystallized. 

Regarding wear, it is recommended that remaining tread depth must be no less than 3 mm. This is especially important in very rainy and cold climes, since adverse weather conditions increase the chances of a weaker grip on the road. This is always important to keep in mind, especially on trips that depend on increased and prolonged use of the car over a number of days.

Some tips for keeping your tyres in good condition

Keeping your tyres in good condition is even more important than you think in order to guarantee proper road safety. 

Here are some final tips, a summary so that you don't miss a thing.

• Tread. As we mentioned above, the tread depth of the tyres should not be less than 3 mm (some people indicate a minimum of 1.6 mm, but each case is distinct). 
• The condition of the rubber. Check that there are no cracks or deformities in the rubber, since tyres can suffer different types of damage, depending on roadway conditions. For example, driving along a gravel road can result in unanticipated inconveniences or scares.
• Pressure level. Low pressure and high pressure can both result in problematic grips on the road surface, leading to damage to the structure of the tyres.
• Date of manufacture of the tyre. On the sides of the tyres you will find a 4-digit inscription indicating the week and year of manufacture. Change them regularly, and be aware of their age. That is essential. 

So, there you have it. Follow a few simple tips, and the health of your tyres will be guaranteed, giving you greater peace of mind in every way. Bet on a responsible attitude and you will win.