Hot weather can place additional strain on your vehicle’s tyres, particularly during long journeys, motorway driving and periods of heavy use. As temperatures rise, it is important to check that your tyres are correctly inflated, free from damage and suitable for the journeys you have planned.
At Midlands Tyre Solutions, we help drivers across Burton upon Trent with professional tyre inspections, tyre fitting, puncture repairs, wheel alignment and replacement tyres. Regular summer tyre checks can help identify potential problems before they affect your vehicle’s safety, handling or performance.
How Does Hot Weather Affect Your Tyres?
As the temperature increases, the air inside your tyres expands. This can increase tyre pressure and place additional stress on the tyre structure, especially when tyres are already worn, damaged or incorrectly inflated.
Hot road surfaces can also increase tyre temperatures while driving. When this is combined with heavy loads, high speeds or long-distance journeys, existing tyre weaknesses may become more serious.
Tyres with cracks, bulges, low tread depth or previous damage may be more vulnerable during warm weather. Checking their condition before travelling can reduce the risk of punctures, rapid pressure loss and unexpected breakdowns.
Check Your Tyre Pressure Before Travelling
Before setting off on a summer journey, check your tyre pressure against the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. The correct pressure can normally be found in your vehicle handbook, inside the driver’s door frame or near the fuel filler cap.
Check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold, as driving warms the tyres and can temporarily increase the pressure reading. Remember that the front and rear tyres may require different pressure settings, particularly when carrying extra passengers or luggage.
Avoid releasing air from warm tyres simply because the reading appears higher. Allow the tyres to cool before checking them again.
Inspect Your Tyres for Damage
A visual tyre inspection only takes a few minutes and can help identify common safety concerns. Look for:
- Cracks or cuts in the tyre sidewall
- Bulges or unusual changes in shape
- Objects embedded in the tread
- Uneven or excessive tyre wear
- Signs of a slow puncture
- Damage around the tyre valve
You should also check your spare tyre, if your vehicle has one, and make sure any tyre repair kit is complete and ready to use.
Monitor Your Tyre Tread Depth
The UK legal minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, allowing your tyres to become heavily worn can reduce grip and affect braking performance.
Summer weather can change quickly, and sudden rain may make roads slippery. Maintaining a healthy tread depth helps your tyres move water away from the road surface and retain better contact with the ground.
Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle
Carrying excessive weight increases the pressure placed on your tyres. Before a road trip, remove unnecessary items and check your vehicle’s recommended load limits.
When travelling with several passengers, luggage or roof storage, your manufacturer may recommend adjusting the tyre pressure. Correct inflation helps the tyres safely support the additional weight.
Arrange a Summer Tyre Check in Burton upon Trent
Whether you are planning a summer road trip or commuting around Burton upon Trent, keeping your tyres in good condition is essential for safe and reliable driving.
Midlands Tyre Solutions provides tyre checks, replacement tyres, puncture repairs, tyre fitting and wheel alignment for local drivers. Contact the team today to arrange a professional summer tyre inspection and make sure your vehicle is ready for warmer weather.
https://midlandtyresolutions.co.uk/
