Check your tyre pressure
If your tyres are not adequately inflated, you may lose control of your car. Under-inflated tyres also result in increased fuel consumption. This could end up costing you more at the pumps than necessary.
Most fuel stations are equipped with an air dispenser that allows you to check and adjust your tyre pressure.
1. Note the correct tyre pressure for your car in your owners handbook.
2. Remove the valve cap from your tyre and attach the pressure gauge. Input the desired pressure on the meter.
3. Depending on the pressure, the machine will either inflate or deflate your tyres to align with the PSI you have entered. A beeping noise will sound once complete, indicating that you can move on to the next tyre.
4. Remember to replace the valve cap on each tyre after using the machine.
Check your tyre tread and the condition of your tyres
It's a legal requirement that your tyres tread depth should meet a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
However, many tyre experts claim that 1.6mm is insufficient to ensure full safety. It is generally recommended that you consider replacing a tyre once the central three-quarters of the tread has worn down to 3mm.
You can assess your tyres tread depth by inserting a €1 coin into the main tread grooves.
If the gold part of the ring is fully visible, the tread is likely below 3 mm and should be checked.
If the gold part is not visible, the tread depth is still above 3 mm.
If you cannot see the gold rim at all when checking the tyre, it is above the 3 mm recommendation.
If the gold rim is partially or fully visible, the tread is likely below 3 mm and could be nearing the 1.6 mm legal limit, so the tyre may need replacing soon.