October is Tyre Safety Month, the perfect time to give your tyres the attention they deserve to ensure safety on the road. Your tyres are the only contact your vehicle has with the road, so keeping them in top shape is essential. Here’s how you can quickly check your tyres and avoid common dangers.
- Check Your Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure is crucial for the performance, safety, and fuel efficiency of your vehicle. You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month using a reliable pressure gauge. Your car’s manual will provide the recommended tyre pressure, so make sure the reading matches up. Properly inflated tyres are less prone to blowouts and will improve fuel economy.
- The 20p Test for Tyre Tread
An easy way to check if your tyres are still roadworthy is by using the 20p test. Simply insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s tread grooves. If you can see the outer band of the coin, your tyre tread depth is likely below the legal limit of 1.6mm. If that’s the case, it’s time to replace your tyres to ensure maximum grip and safety on the road.
- Inspect for Damage
Tyres take a beating on the road, so it’s important to visually inspect them for any damage. Look for cuts, cracks, or bulges, as these can lead to blowouts if left unchecked. Make it a habit to check your tyres after long drives or when parking after hitting a pothole.
How to Avoid Common Tyre Dangers
Road conditions and tyre care play a major role in keeping your tyres in good shape. Here are some common dangers and how to avoid them:
- – Potholes: With over 1 million potholes scattered across UK roads, tyres are at constant risk of damage. After driving over a pothole, inspect your tyres for any cracks or bulges, which may be hidden but can cause long-term damage.
- – Underinflation: Driving with underinflated tyres is a leading cause of tyre blowouts. Low pressure not only makes tyres more susceptible to damage but also negatively affects your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and handling. Be sure to keep your tyres properly inflated as per your vehicle’s recommendations.
- – Uneven Wear: If your tyres are wearing unevenly, it’s a sign that your wheels may need balancing or alignment. Addressing this issue early can save your tyres and improve your vehicle’s handling and stability.
The Best Tool for the Job: The Worx WX092.9 Cordless Tyre Inflator
Whether you’re topping up tyre pressure or inflating a flat, the Worx WX092.9 Cordless Tyre Inflator is the ultimate tool. Recently awarded ‘Best Tyre Inflator Compressor’ by Parkers, it stands out for its quick inflation, lightweight build, and convenient cordless design. According to their review:
“What struck me immediately was just how quickly it goes about topping up air in a tyre. From an indicated 30psi to the recommended 32, said top-up took less than a minute before the machine automatically stopped at the correct figure… It’s also very easy to hook up the valve to the connector and lock it in place.”
This inflator is more than just a tyre tool. It comes with four handy features: a built-in tyre pressure gauge, an LED work light, and an SOS emergency light, making it perfect for roadside emergencies. The lightweight design (only 950g without the battery) ensures it’s easy to keep in your boot for emergencies.
For more information or to purchase, check out the Worx WX092.9 Cordless Tyre Inflator.
More from Worx: The Complete 20V Cordless Vehicle Maintenance Kit
If you want an all-in-one solution for maintaining your vehicle, consider the Worx WKIT3 Cordless Vehicle Maintenance Kit. This 4-in-1 portable system includes everything you need to keep your vehicle looking and running its best, whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or even a boat.
Included in the kit:
- – Cordless Car Polisher (WX856)
- – 770A Lithium Jump Starter (WX852.1)
- – Cube Vac Portable Vacuum (WX030)
- – Tyre Inflator with Gauge (WX092)
The kit also comes with two 20V PowerShare batteries and a durable storage bag for easy transportation. To learn more or purchase the kit, visit Worx 20V Cordless Vehicle Maintenance Kit.
Tyre Safety Month is an excellent reminder to stay on top of your vehicle’s tyre health. A quick check can go a long way in preventing accidents and maintaining your car’s performance. For more convenience, tools like the Worx WX092.9 Cordless Tyre Inflator and the all-inclusive vehicle maintenance kit make tyre care and general upkeep a breeze. Keep your tyres in check, drive safe, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a well-maintained vehicle.
