Did you know that South Africa has about 25 million potholes? The chance that you regularly encounter these large, gaping holes in the road is therefore very high. These sneaky road hazards can cause serious damage to your tyres, wheels and suspension.
But with a few practical measures, you can keep your tyres in prime condition while travelling the bumpier parts of the country.
Maintain the Appropriate Tyre Pressure
Underinflated or overinflated tyres are more susceptible to damage from potholes. Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure once a month. Not sure what your tyre pressure should be?
Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, often found on the driver’s door jamb or owner’s manual. Correct inflation improves shock absorption, minimizing the chance of punctures and maximizing tire longevity.
If you’re searching for the best tyre prices, consider reputable suppliers like Minty’s.
Slow Down and Remain Vigilant
Potholes often appear in a blink of an eye, particularly after heavy rains. Reduce your speed and keep a safe following distance so you can spot pothole dangers early. If you must drive over a pothole, do so straight on and slowly to minimise the impact, as swerving at the last moment can be dangerous. When shopping for the most ideal tyres for sale, opt for durable options that can handle unexpected bumps.
Avoid Sudden Braking
Everyone understands the agony of needing to apply the brakes! When you brake hard right before a pothole, the tyre is forced deeper into the hole, which can result in more damage.
Instead, ease off the accelerator and gently brake if possible, keeping both hands on the steering wheel for better control.
Regularly Rotate Your Tyres
Rotation is key! By rotating your tyres every 8,000 to 10,000 kilometres, you can guarantee even wear and lower your risk of damage from potholes.
A tyre rotation service is also a great opportunity for the professionals to inspect your tyres for hidden damage. Keep an eye out for our wheels specials to maintain both your tyres and rims.
Check the Alignment of Your Wheels
If you’ve encountered a pothole, particularly while driving at high speed, your wheel alignment might take a knock. If your wheels are not aligned, they can cause uneven tyre wear, making your vehicle harder to control.
We recommend you book a wheel alignment check if you’ve noticed your car swerving to one side or uneven tyre tread.
Quality Tyres Are Key
While it’s tempting to go cheap, investing in durable, premium tyres designed for tricky terrain can save you money in the long run. Look for tyres with reinforced sidewalls for added protection and browse our tyre specials for great value without compromising on quality. After all, you want to be able to plan your tyre purchases – not be left in an emergency scrambling for replacements when your cheap ones give in.
South African roads can be unforgiving, but taking these steps can extend your tyres’ lifespan and keep you safer on the road.
When in doubt, visit your nearest Mintys branch for trusted advice and service. We deliver the best tyre deals and essential maintenance services.
