When Do You Need to Change Your Tyres?
Your tyres are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle, yet they are often overlooked. Worn or aged tyres can compromise your grip, increase stopping distances, and put you and your family at risk. CMH Suzuki Umhlanga has put together this essential guide to help you know exactly when it’s time for a replacement.
Check Your Tread Wear Indicator Bars
Tread wear indicator bars are the little bumps you find in between the tyre tread. They are a good indication of how much life your tyres have left. If there is no longer space between them and the tyre tread, it’s best you change them immediately. This impacts your traction, stopping distance, and grip — especially on wet or slippery surfaces.
Pro tip: If the tread is level with these bars, your tyres are legally worn out and unsafe for the road.
Don’t Ignore Tyre Age
Tyre age is a common factor that a lot of people do not know about — or think doesn’t make a big difference. Tyres older than 5 years may start to harden and lose grip. When your tyre has visible cracks in the sidewall or between treads, this is usually the first sign of age. You will notice reduced traction and longer braking distance as rubber compounds degrade over time.
How to check your tyre’s age: Look for the DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year of manufacture. For example, “3521” means the 35th week of 2021. If your tyres are over five years old, consider replacing them — regardless of tread depth.
Why Regular Tyre Checks Matter
Regular tyre checks ensure your safety, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance driving comfort. Properly inflated and healthy tyres reduce rolling resistance, saving you money at the pump. They also provide better handling and a smoother ride for you and your passengers.
Make it a habit to inspect your tyres monthly and before any long trip. Look for uneven wear, cuts, bulges, or punctures.
Get Expert Help at CMH Suzuki Umhlanga
Visit CMH Suzuki Umhlanga for expert advice and tyre replacements you can trust. Our team will help you choose the right tyres for your Suzuki and your driving needs.
Exclusive offer: CMH Suzuki Umhlanga offers free tyre rotation and alignment for 2 years when you purchase your next set of tyres from us.
📍 Visit us at:
6 Sunset Crescent, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga, 4319
📞 Call us on: 031 502 5565
🌐 Visit our website: www.suzukiumhlanga.co.za
