It’s hot out there and only going to get hotter!
Apart from staying in the shade, keeping hydrated and doing everything you can to avoid the heat, there’s something else you need to keep in mind as summer rolls on.
Summer heat can cause car tyres to overheat and burst
The scorching summer heat in the GCC can put a lot of strain on your car tyres. As the air temperature rises, the air pressure in your tyres also increases. This can cause the tyres to overheat and burst, which can be a serious safety hazard.
How does it happen?
When you drive, your tyres rub against the road surface, creating friction. This friction generates heat, which causes the air in the tyres to expand. If the air pressure in the tyres gets too high, the tyres can burst.
How to prevent a tyre blowout
There are a few things you can do to prevent a tyre blowout in the summer:
Keep your tyres inflated to the correct pressure. The recommended tyre pressure is usually listed on the inside of your driver's door or in your car's owner's manual.
Check your tyre pressure regularly, especially in hot weather. You can use a tyre pressure gauge to check the pressure.
Avoid overloading your car. The more weight your car is carrying, the more stress it puts on the tyres, which can increase the risk of a blowout.
Avoid driving too fast. The faster you drive, the more friction there is between your tyres and the road, which can also increase the risk of a blowout.
Pull over if you see signs of overheating tyres. If your tyres are hot to the touch or you see signs of excessive air pressure, pull over and let your tyres cool down before continuing your journey.
Symptoms of overheating tyres:
Hot to the touch. Overheated tyres will feel hot to the touch, especially on the sidewalls.
Excessive air pressure. You can check the air pressure in your tyres using a tyre pressure gauge. If the pressure is too high, you'll need to let some air out.
Tires that are making a lot of noise. Overheated tyres may start to make a lot of noise, especially when you're driving over bumps or uneven surfaces.
If you experience any of these symptoms, pull over immediately and let your tyres cool down. Do not continue driving with overheated tyres, as this could lead to a blowout.
By following these simple tips, you can help to prevent a tyre blowout and keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road this summer.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your tyres in good condition in hot weather:
Clean and treat your tyres regularly. This will help to keep the tyres from drying out and cracking, which can make them more susceptible to damage.
Avoid parking your car in direct sunlight. If you have to park in the sun, try to park in the shade if possible.
Rotate your tyres regularly. This will help to evenly distribute the wear and tear on the tyres, which will extend their lifespan.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your tyres in good condition and prevent a tyre blowout this summer.
Here’s a blog post we wrote a while ago with 7 interesting facts about car tyres.
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