If you own or operate a vehicle there are some basics you must know about its proper operation. Chief of this, is maintaining your tyres.

Do you know how to properly identify different types of tyres and sizes? What is the appropriate pressure for your tyre? When do you upgrade and change a worn tyre?

This graphic illustrates some basic information about tyres

1 Identify the various types of tyres

Tyres fall under different groups depending on the vehicle.

Vehicles such as sedans and minivans require tyres that offer a smooth and reliable ride. Suitable tyres for these vehicles would be “all-season” or “touring” tyres. A truck or a sports utility vehicle (SUV), however, may require more aggressive tyres such as “Highway”, “All-Terrain” or “Ribbed” tyres.

You must also take into consideration our terrain, for example there is no snow or ice on Jamaican roads, so snow/winter tyres should be avoided as they may lead to fatal accidents.

Meanwhile, you can identify tyre sizes by looking at the side of the tyre; on each tyre, there is a series of numbers and letters. The letter may identify the speed rating, while the numbers refer to width, profile and rim size.

2 Appropriate tyre pressure

The appropriate tyre pressure varies from vehicle to vehicle, and the optimum for a sedan may be different when compared to a luxury SUV. You will find your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure on a sticker somewhere on the vehicle. The sticker may be placed inside the driver’s door, on the lid of the car’s trunk, in the console or even on the fuel door. Knowing the correct tyre pressure ensures your tyres last longer and secures a comfortable and safe ride.

3 Know when to upgrade your tyres

Finally, a key tyre basic is knowing when to upgrade your tyres. This is important as it also upgrades the safety, performance and look of your vehicle. Depending on the frequency of use, tyres tend to last three to four years before the threads begin to wear. You should routinely check your vehicle and its tyre health; also considering the journeys it has taken you on. Quick dashes around New Kingston will have less impact on your tyres when compared to weekly business trips from Montego Bay, St. James to Chapelton in Clarendon.

Accidents do happen, but always bear the above tips in mind to ensure safety and efficiency wherever and whenever.

If you own or operate a vehicle there are some basics you must know about its proper operation. Chief of this, is maintaining your tyres.

Do you know how to properly identify different types of tyres and sizes? What is the appropriate pressure for your tyre? When do you upgrade and change a worn tyre?

This graphic illustrates some basic information about tyres

1 Identify the various types of tyres

Tyres fall under different groups depending on the vehicle.

Vehicles such as sedans and minivans require tyres that offer a smooth and reliable ride. Suitable tyres for these vehicles would be “all-season” or “touring” tyres. A truck or a sports utility vehicle (SUV), however, may require more aggressive tyres such as “Highway”, “All-Terrain” or “Ribbed” tyres.  You must also take into consideration our terrain, for example there is no snow or ice on Jamaican roads, so snow/winter tyres should be avoided as they may lead to fatal accidents.

Meanwhile, you can identify tyre sizes by looking at the side of the tyre; on each tyre, there is a series of numbers and letters. The letter may identify the speed rating, while the numbers refer to width, profile and rim size.

2 Appropriate tyre pressure

The appropriate tyre pressure varies from vehicle to vehicle, and the optimum for a sedan may be different when compared to a luxury SUV. You will find your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure on a sticker somewhere on the vehicle. The sticker may be placed inside the driver’s door, on the lid of the car’s trunk, in the console or even on the fuel door. Knowing the correct tyre pressure ensures your tyres last longer and secures a comfortable and safe ride.

3 Know when to upgrade your tyres

Finally, a key tyre basic is knowing when to upgrade your tyres. This is important as it also upgrades the safety, performance and look of your vehicle. Depending on the frequency of use, tyres tend to last three to four years before the threads begin to wear.

You should routinely check your vehicle and its tyre health; also considering the journeys it has taken you on. Quick dashes around New Kingston will have less impact on your tyres when compared to weekly business trips from Montego Bay, St. James to Chapelton in Clarendon.

Accidents do happen, but always bear the above tips in mind to ensure safety and efficiency wherever and whenever.