Second-hand tyres are a big NO-NO!
Buying new tyres can be hard on your paycheck, that’s why more and more South Africans are opting for cheaper, unknown brands… or even buying second-hand, used tyres – yes that’s right, and it’s downright dangerous!
South Africa is becoming a dumping ground for poor quality, non-regulated and unrecognised tyre brands and second-hand tyres which are dangerous for the drivers who used them, a statement from the South African Tyre Manufacturers Conference said.
Buying second-hand tyres might sound like a good idea, but in reality it can be fatal. A staggering 22% of accidents are caused by tyre failures and this is increasing as more and more people are ignoring their tyre issues. ”This rate could be significantly reduced if motorists would change their tyre purchasing habits and purchase reliable, good quality tyres,” said Kathy Roberts, SATMC chairwoman.
Second-hand tyres are extremely dangerous as the state of their casing can not be ascertained. It is also questionable whether the tread depth of that tyre met the legal minimum safety standards. Good tread keeps you in control of your car by helping with braking, steering and accelerating. It’s essential for grip, especially in wet weather. A low tyre tread won’t disperse water adequately and could cause you to lose control of your car. Tread also protects the tyre casing from punctures. The legal limit for tread is 1.6 mm but it’s a good idea never to go below 3 mm.
One research study done found that 90% of the second-hand, previously used tyres tested failed to meet minimum legal requirements, with issues ranging from embedded nails, illegal tread depth, exposed cords, inadequate sidewall markings and one tyre which was 17 years old – shocking!
To be safe, rather spend extra money on new tyres. Bridgestone says the most effective way to reduce tyre costs over the lifetime of a passenger car is to ensure that tyres are always correctly inflated to provide the most economical operation. Correct driving style also helps prolong tyre life, such as avoiding harsh braking, heavy cornering and sudden acceleration. If you take care of your tyres it can prolong the life up to 30%!
Here are tips for taking care of your tyres.
(Source: Tyre Reviews, rezulteo, Facebook)