Tires are a crucial component of vehicle maintenance. They are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. They provide grip, absorb shocks, and provide traction for a smooth and safe ride. However, the use of tires comes wear and tear. it is important to keep an eye on the condition of your tires and replace them whenever necessary. At Scrapcar, we understand the importance of tire maintenance and are here to provide you with all the information you need on when to change your tires and how to reduce tire wear to extend their lifespan in Singapore.
When to Replace Your Tires
Replacing your tires is an important aspect of vehicle maintenance, and it is crucial to do so when necessary to ensure the safety of your vehicle in Singapore. You should not change your tires only when you have reached your tire’s advertised mileage as it is an estimate and may vary depending on factors such as driving conditions, tire wear, and driving habits.
Instead, here are the most common indicators that your tires need to be changed:
Tread Depth: Tread depth refers to the amount of rubber left on your tires after normal wear and tear. In Singapore, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, and it is recommended to replace your tires when the tread depth reaches 3mm to ensure there that is adequate grip and traction, especially in wet weather conditions. To measure the tread depth, you can look for the wear indicator bars, which are small bridges between the tread blocks that indicate when the tire is worn and needs to be replaced when the bar is flushed with the tire tread. Replace as soon as even one tread bar is flushed.
Age: The average lifespan of tires is 5 years, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications and driving habits. The age of your tires can be found on the sidewall that is written in 4 digits. (E.g. 3622) means that it was produced on the 36 week of 2022. It is recommended to replace them if they are over 5 years old, not 5 years from when you bought the tires, and even if the tread depth is still within acceptable limits. Over time, the rubber of the tires can deteriorate and become brittle, increasing the risk of a blowout or any other tire-related accidents.
Cracks or Bulges: Visible cracks or bulges on your tires are a sign that they need to be replaced immediately. These signs indicate that the tires are deteriorating and can pose a safety hazard if driven on. It can also weaken the structure of the tire, making it more susceptible to punctures, cuts, or other types of damage that can compromise its integrity.
Vibration and Noise: If you experience noticeable vibrations when driving, it may also indicate that your tires are worn or damaged. This can cause discomfort when driving and could potentially lead to an accident if not addressed timely. Another sign that may indicate that it is time to change your tires is an increase of noise from the tires, When the tread depth of the tire becomes low, it can cause the tire to make more noise as it meets the road.
To reduce tire wear and extend the lifespan of your tires in Singapore, it is important to follow these basic tire maintenance tips:
Consistent Tire Pressure Monitoring: Appropriate tire pressure plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and functionality of your tires. Low tire pressure causes tires to deform and result in uneven wear, while high tire pressure can cause overheating and premature tire wear. To ensure that your tire pressure stays within the manufacturer’s guidelines, and you can find the optimal tire pressure for your vehicle on the tire placard which is normally located on the driver side doorjamb. We recommend you pump your tires at least once a month.
Alignment of Wheels: Optimal wheel alignment is vital in extending the lifespan of your tires and minimizing tire wear. When misaligned, your wheels can cause uneven tire wear and reduce your grip and traction on the road. To ensure that your wheels are correctly aligned, we advise scheduling a wheel alignment check at least once a year.
Routine Tire Rotation: Regular tire rotations play a critical role in distributing tire wear evenly, as weight of your vehicle is not always distributed evenly across all four tires. By having frequent tire rotation, it helps in reducing excessive tire wear in one area and therefore increasing your tire lifespan. It is recommended to rotate your tires every 10,000km or every six months, whichever comes first.
Avoiding Overloading: Overloading your vehicle can result in excessive stress on your tires and premature tire wear. When a vehicle is overloaded, each tire must bear more weight than it was designed for, which causes the tires to deform more under the additional weight. This leads to increased friction and heat, causing the tires to wear out faster. To maintain tire longevity, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s weight recommendations and avoid overloading your vehicle.
Additional tip: Besides routine maintenance, we at Scrapcar also recommend investing in premium tires from reputable brands and it can play a significant role in the longevity, performance, and overall safety of your tires. Brands such as Michelin, Goodyear and Continental just to name a few, are known for offering high-quality tires that provide superior performance, comfort, and safety on the road and they are all able to provide you the best tire that suits your driving needs and budget.
In summary, tire maintenance is a crucial aspect of owning a vehicle. Routine inspections and upkeep can guarantee that your tires are in their best condition, providing a smooth and secure driving experience around our island. At Scrapcar, we recognize the significance of tire maintenance and have provided you with all the necessary information on when to change your tires and how to prolong their lifespan. By conducting regular tire pressure checks, ensuring proper wheel alignment, scheduling regular tire rotations, and avoiding overloading, you can be confident that your tires will be in good shape. By adhering to these straightforward tips, your vehicle will continue to provide you with a dependable and safe ride for the journeys to come.