Have you ever hit a puddle on the road and started aquaplaning? It’s terrifying, even at slow speeds. At high speeds or in heavy traffic, losing control like that could be deadly. That’s why you can’t afford to let the tread on your car tyres wear out.
South Africa’s roads are notorious for having plenty of puddles, potholes, gravel patches and other hazards lying in wait around every corner. You need a good grip on the road to stay safe. However, when you’re driving with worn-out tyres, the surface that’s meant to grip the road starts turning smooth, and smooth rubber doesn’t hold well on unpredictable surfaces.
Why Does Tread Depth Matter So Much?
Those grooves on your tyres are critical. They move water away and help your wheels stay in contact with the road. Once they wear flat, there’s nowhere for that water to go. The result is that your car will start gliding across the water, leaving you unable to steer effectively.
No matter whether you’re driving an entry-level hatchback, a bakkie, an SUV or a high-performance car, the consequences of bald tyres are the same.
How Badly Can Worn Tyres Affect Braking?
Bald car tyres affect braking more than most people think. Driving with worn-out tyres can easily double your stopping distance, especially on wet roads. You’ll press the brake, and the car will just keep going.
On a busy highway, that gap can be the difference between stopping safely and rear-ending someone at full speed. It happens so fast, and it happens to even the best drivers. There are no shortcuts for tyre tread safety in South Africa.
What Other Dangers Come With Ignoring Tyre Wear?
There’s the obvious safety risk, but worn tyre dangers don’t just stop there. Bald tyres can burst, which can wreck your rims or suspension, and your insurer might reject a claim if your tyres were under the legal tread limit.
The fines for poor tyre safety in South Africa are steep, and police tend to check this more frequently nowadays, given the risk it poses to you and other vehicles on the road.
When Should You Replace Them?
If the tread looks low or the surface feels uneven, it’s time to have it checked. Don’t wait until they’re bald. A proper tyre shop like Mintys can check the tread depth to ensure you’re within legal limits. While you’re at it, you can get your wheels balanced and aligned as well to ensure you’re fully in control of your car on the road.
Book an inspection or replacement at your nearest Minty’s branch today in Johannesburg, Vereeniging, Durban or Pretoria and get expert help choosing the right car tyres for safer driving in South Africa. Get a quote online now.
