Hot weather and long motorway trips are a classic recipe for a summer blowout. Heat raises the pressure and temperature inside the tyre, and any existing weakness, low tread, old rubber, under-inflation or a hidden cut, is far more likely to let go. A few summer checks keep your tyres safe.
Why heat is hard on tyres
As tyres warm, the air inside expands and pressure climbs. Combine that with high speeds, a heavily loaded car and hot tarmac, and a marginal tyre can overheat and fail. Older, perished tyres are especially vulnerable.
Summer tyre checklist
- Check pressures cold against the recommended figure, and don't over-inflate to "allow for heat".
- Inspect for cracks, bulges and embedded objects before long trips.
- Mind the load. A fully loaded holiday car may need the higher "laden" pressure, check your handbook.
- Check the spare, it's often the oldest, most neglected tyre.
On a long drive
Take breaks, they let tyres cool and let you spot problems early. If a tyre looks low or feels odd, stop and check rather than pushing on. Know what to do in a blowout before you need to.
Pre-trip tyre check at home
Heading off on a summer trip? We'll check and replace tyres at your home before you leave, across London and Birmingham. Book a check.
