They’re black, round, and unremarkably plain looking, but despite this tyres can actually put a dent on your wallet, especially if you aren’t in the know of the various ways you can save on them.
Here are some tips to help you save money on tyres—but without cutting corners.
- Inflate tyres to the proper levels
Driving with underinflated tyres causes premature tyre wear and increased fuel consumptions; while overinflated tyres can lead to potential blowouts and make your car unstable. Ensuring your tyres aren’t under or over inflated can help maximize your car’s fuel economy, ensure your safety on the road and extend the life of your tyre.
- Rotate your tyres
If you want your tyres to last much longer and avoid the exorbitant cost of a replacement, rotating them is key. Tyre rotation is basically the practice of rearranging your tyres from one position to another.
In front-wheel drive vehicles, for example, the front tyres carry majority of the weight and bear the brunt of braking and steering, which means they degrade much faster than rear tyres. Rotating your tyres will help equalize tread wear and thus, ensure a longer service life. Manufacturers recommend getting tyre rotation every 8,000 to 12,000 kilometres, even if tread wear isn’t evident.
- Shop online
It’s become more common for car owners these days to buy car tyres online because of the convenience and cost savings it offers. Sites like TyreCompare let you compare tyre prices from different retailers near you, making it easy for you to get a good deal especially if you’re pinching pennies. What’s more, most retailers today don’t require you to come to their shop, so you can have your tyres fitted or balanced at your desired location, saving you both time and money.
- Steer clear of used tyres
Eco-friendly and cost-conscious drivers might think that going for tyres marketed as “slightly used” is the best way to save on money, but the truth is used tyres can cost you more as they can have dangers that don’t always meet the eye. Some tyres might look almost brand new, but they may have dry rot, sidewall cracks or any other internal damage that aren’t visible. And even if they don’t have damage, you may have to shell out even more money as used tyres can wear out much faster than brand new ones.
- Don’t wait until you need new tyres
The most effective way to avoid splurging on tyres? Don’t wait until you need new tyres before thinking of getting them! Waiting until one of your tyres run flat or become too worn out that you’re setting yourself up for an accident can cost you a lot. Instead, be proactive and regularly inspect your tyre for signs of damage. Remember to look out for the tread wear indicator bars or do the penny test to gauge whether you really need new ones. Some unscrupulous mechanics may try to convince you to buy a new set even if your current ones are still functional.
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