On all tyres, you will
find a wear and tear indicator on the side with the marking
TWI. Depending on the law, the depth of the profile should
not be below 1,6mm. However, to retain maximum grip on
snow or to retain a minimal stopping distance and avoid
hydroplaning, we advise that tyres should be changed after
3,0mm depth for summer tyres, and 4,0mm for winter tyres.
When you first put new tyres on your vehicle, drive
at modest speeds for the first few kilometres and regularly
check the depth of the profile, the tread and the regularity
of usage.
On the side of the tyre
there is always essential information regarding
the dimension and load and speed indicator.
For example, on the tyre it says « 215/65R16
102H »
215
width of the tyre in millimetres
65
corresponds to the height of the flank (side)
expressed as a percentage of the width of the surface.
In this case, the height of the flank is 65% of
the width of the surface
R
is the type of manufacturing of the body. In
this instance; radius. D for diagonal
16
is the interior diameter in inches. This figure
should correspond with the wheel dimensions
102
represents load, that is the load capacity that
the wheel can support
H
is the speed indicator. In this instance, the
tyre can run therefore at a maximum speed of 210
km/h
It is imperative to check the pressure
of your tyres (when cold), including the spare wheel,
once a month and as before a long journey.
A tyre, which has not the right pressure risks overheating
and trigger an explosion. Also, the less pressure a
tyre has, the more the car consumes fuel and its performance
is degrading.
You will find the recommended pressure in the owner’s
manual or on the sticker found in the door by the drivers
seat or on the petrol tank cover.
It is of equal importance that you check the pressure
in your spare tyre, too.
Correct balancing is necessary every time you change
the tyres. This avoids or at least limits vibrations.
Parallelism is the alignment between the front and back
wheels of the same axle. It must be checked after a collision,
after impact with a pavement, following a change in the
shock absorbers and other pieces, following abnormal wearing
of the inner and outer side of the tyres or if the vehicle
develops a tendency to drift left or right. An incorrect
alignment can cause damage to your tyres and your steering
accuracy, cause premature wearing as well as reduce grip,
and greaten fuel consumption. For your comfort and your
security, alignment in your wheels is of great importance.
For tyres and wheels, laying them down flat, aka horizontally,
stacked, without any additional weight on top. Avoid prolonged
exposure to the sun and the elements.