We are currently in the midst of the holiday season and many people will be making extended holiday journeys with heavily loaded vehicles.
With this in mind, it may be a timely reminder to highlight the importance of correct tyre pressures in relation to the increased weight being carried.
Most vehicles have two recommended tyre pressures. One for normal loads and one for a heavily loaded vehicle full of passengers and accompanying luggage. This will normally be shown on a sticker on the door, door pillar or inside the fuel cap. Many vehicles can be fitted with a selection of tyre sizes and if so, it is important to check the tyre size fitted to your vehicle and look for the appropriate pressure for this size of tyre. The sticker will indicate the recommended pressure for the front tyres and the rear tyres. It will usually, also show symbols for normal use and when carrying a load.
Tyres heavily loaded and with pressures not adjusted to compensate, will effectively become underinflated. As a result, the tyre can potentially generate a significant amount of excess heat which is capable of causing a tyre to fail and delaminate. When you see the remains of a tyre carcass at the side of the road, it is very likely caused by under inflation, either due to overloading or slow puncture.
Check your tyres and keep safe.
