Your car's tyres are the only point of contact with the road, which makes them essential for safety, handling, and overall driving performance. keeping your tyres in good condition not only improves fuel efficiency but also ensures you and your passengers stay safe on the road.

However, many drivers overlook the basics of tyre maintenances, which can lead to premature wear, higher fuel costs, and potentially endanger lives.

Maintain the Correct Tyre Pressure

Tyres lose air pressure naturally over time, so it's important to check your tyres pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. Under-inflated tyre cause excessive wear on the edges, reduce fuel efficiency, and increase the risk of blowouts, while over-inflated tyres lead to wear in the centre and affect handling.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Use the pressure recommendation found in your car's manual or on the driver's side door frame, and check pressure when tyres are cool for the most accurate reading.

Rotate Your Tyres Regularly

Tyre rotation ensures even wear across all tyres, as the weight distribution of your car can cause certain tyres to wear out faster. Front tyres typically bear more weight due to steering and braking, so rotating them every 8,000km to 10,000km is crucial for prolonging their life.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Get your tyres rotated during routine servicing to save time and check your vehicle's manual for the recommended rotation pattern.

Balance and Align Your Tyres

Proper alignment ensures your tyres make even contact with the road. Misalignment can cause uneven wear, poor handling, and decreased fuel efficiency. Additionally, tyre balancing ensures the weight of your car is distributed evenly across all tyres, preventing vibrations and premature wear.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: If you notice your car pulling to one side or experienceing vibrations, it's time to check your tyre alignment and balance.

Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading your car puts excessive pressure on the tyres, leading to faster wear and increasing the risk of a blowout. Always be mindful of your vehicle's load capacity, which can be found in the owner's manual or the driver's side door frame.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Spread the weight of passengers and cargo evenly across the vehicle to avoid stressing certain tyres more than others.

Drive Smoothly

Aggressive driving, such as hard braking, rapid acceleration, and sharp turns, can cause your tyres to wear out faster. Smooth, gradual movements help to reduce friction between the tyres and the road, preserving tread and extending tyre life.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Anticipate stops and turns early to reduce the need for sudden braking and steering, keeping your tyres in better shape.

Check Tyre Tread Regularly

Tyre tread is crucial for maintaining grip on the road, particularly in wet or slippery conditions. As the tread wears down, your tyres lose traction, which can lead to dangerous driving situations. Use a tread depth gauge or the "20 cent coin test" to check your tread depth or you can learn from Jay, our Lady Car Expert.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Replace tyres when the tread depth falls below 1.6mm or if your notice any signs of damage, such as cracks or bulges.

Invest in Quality Tyres

While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper tyres, investing in high-quality tyres can pay off in the long run. Quality tyres last longer offer better handling, and provide a more comfortable ride. They are also designed to perform better in varying weather conditions, which is crucial for safety.

*BERJAYA SOMPO TIP: Consult a tyre specialist to choose the best tyres for your driving habits, climate, and vehicle type.

Even with the best tyre care, accidents and unforeseen incidents can still happen. Berjaya Sompo's motor insurance comes with comprehensive coverage not only to cover you from accidents and third-party liabilities but also to cover for emergency roadside assistance, including tyre-related incidents like punctures and blowouts.

At Berjaya Sompo, we're committed to helping you stay safe on the road. By following these simple tyre maintenance tips and having the right motor insurance in place, you an ensure a smoother, safer driving experience while protecting your investment.

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