Key Takeaways:
- Check tyre pressure when cold, especially before long journeys, as summer heat causes pressure fluctuations.
- Inspect tread depth (minimum 1.6mm legally required in South Africa) and look for uneven wear patterns.
- Examine tyres for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects that could cause blowouts.
- Consider Bidvest Insurance’s Tyre and Rim Insurance to protect against unexpected costs.
Summer holidays mean one thing for South African families: road trips. Whether you’re heading to the Drakensberg, cruising down to the Wild Coast, or making the journey to the Cape, your tyres are working overtime to get you there safely.
Summer conditions can be particularly harsh on tyres. Hot tar surfaces, long distances, and fully loaded vehicles create the perfect storm for tyre-related incidents. In fact, tyre failures are among the most common causes of roadside breakdowns during the holiday season. The good news? Most of these incidents are entirely preventable with a simple pre-trip inspection.
This comprehensive checklist will help you ensure your tyres are road-trip ready, so you can focus on making memories this summer.
Why Summer Is Particularly Tough on Tyres
Summer presents unique challenges for your vehicle’s tyres. As temperatures soar, the tar on South African roads can reach scorching temperatures. This extreme heat causes tyres to heat up significantly, which in turn increases internal air pressure.
Hot tyres are more susceptible to blowouts, especially if they’re already underinflated, overloaded, or showing signs of wear. The combination of heat, heavy loads, and long-distance driving creates additional stress on tyre structures.
Check Tyre Pressure Before You Leave
Tyre pressure is the single most important factor in tyre safety and performance. Incorrect pressure affects handling, braking distance, fuel consumption, and tyre lifespan.
Check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold – ideally first thing in the morning before you’ve driven anywhere. The recommended pressure for your specific vehicle is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or in your owner’s manual.
Inspect Tread Depth and Wear Patterns
Your tyre tread is what keeps you connected to the road, especially in wet conditions. South African law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. It is, however, generally recommended to replace tyres when tread reaches 3mm for optimal safety. If you notice any unusual wear patterns, have your vehicle checked by a professional before your trip.
Look for Visible Damage and Foreign Objects
A thorough visual inspection can reveal problems that might not be immediately obvious. Walk around your vehicle and examine each tyre carefully, looking for cracks or cuts in the sidewall, bulges or blisters, and embedded objects like nails or screws.
Pay special attention to the sidewalls, as damage here is often more serious than tread damage. Sidewall damage cannot be repaired and requires tyre replacement. If you find any embedded objects, don’t remove them yourself. Put your spare tyre on and drive to a tyre shop who can assess whether the tyre can be repaired.
Don’t Forget Your Spare Tyre
Your spare tyre is your insurance policy against being stranded roadside, yet it’s also the most neglected tyre on your vehicle. Check your spare tyre with the same care you give your regular tyres. Ensure it’s properly inflated.
Inspect the spare for signs of age, cracking, or damage. Make sure you have all the necessary tools: a jack in good working condition, a wheel spanner that fits your wheel nuts, and a warning triangle. If you have a space-saver spare, remember it’s designed for temporary use only with a maximum speed limit of 80 km/h.
Protect Your Budget With Tyre and Rim Insurance
Even with perfect tyre maintenance, unexpected damage can occur. South African roads present numerous hazards – potholes, debris, sharp objects, and road construction can damage your tyres and rims without warning.
Bidvest Insurance offers Tyre and Rim Insurance that covers you against unexpected tyre repair and replacement costs.
Rather than facing a large, unexpected expense during your holiday, Tyre and Rim Insurance ensures you don’t ruin your holiday budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Check my Tyre Pressure?
You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month and always before long journeys. During summer, consider checking more frequently. Tyre pressure should always be checked when tyres are cold, preferably first thing in the morning.
What is The Minimum Tread Depth in South Africa?
The legal minimum tread depth in South Africa is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. For optimal safety, especially in wet conditions, consider replacing your tyres when tread depth reaches 3mm.
What Does Tyre and Rim Insurance Cover?
Bidvest Insurance’s Tyre and Rim Insurance covers accidental damage to tyres and rims caused by road hazards like potholes, providing up to R4,000 for tyre replacement.
Take the Road With Confidence
Your summer road trip should be about creating wonderful memories, not dealing with tyre problems. Our Tyre and Rim Insurance ensures you’re protected against unexpected tyre and rim damage, allowing you to focus on what matters most – enjoying your holiday with family and friends.
Complete the form below to get Tyre and Rim Insurance from Bidvest Insurance.
