Graham Cahill’s Tip to Make your 4WD Tyres last longer
G'day, Graham Cahill here from 4WD 24/7. How you can make your 4WD tyres last longer and get the most out of your investment. Even the best tyres need a bit of TLC to stay in top shape. Here are my top three tips to extend the life of the tyres on your 4WD.
1. Rotate Your Tyres and Keep Your Wheels Straight
I try to rotate my tyres every 5,000 to 10,000 km’s, depending on driving conditions, load being carried or if I’ve been towing. It’s important to keep the wear even, especially if you’re throwing heavy loads, towing or rough outback tracks in the equation.
Also, get your wheel alignment checked now and then. Off-road driving can give your suspension and steering a real workout – every rock, rut, pothole or hard bump has the potential to knock things slightly out of line. Even a small misalignment can cause uneven tyre wear, your vehicle to pull to one side, and your steering to feel vague.
Proper alignment means your tyres wear evenly, your steering stays sharp, and you stay on track literally and figuratively.
2. Maintain Correct Tyre Pressure
Other than bad alignment, nothing kills tyres faster than running them too low or too high. Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure at least once a month or before any big trips. Use the recommended PSI from your vehicle placard/manual, but if you’ve switched to LT tyres, chances are you could need a higher pressure. Correct pressure helps your tyres grip better, wear evenly, and last longer.
3. Drive Responsibly and Change Your Habits
Off-road or on the blacktop, smooth driving makes a massive difference. Hard accelerations, sudden stops, and sharp turns just wear your tyres out quicker. Take it easy, drive smart, and your tyres will thank you and last a lot longer.
Of course, starting with quality rubber is a huge step in the right direction and by running a tyre like the Dueler A/T 697 plus following the above tips, you’re guaranteed to get maximum kilometres out of your tyres.
Graham Cahill is one of Australia’s most recognised 4WD adventurers and photojournalists. Best known for his work on 4WD 24/7, he’s spent decades tackling some of the toughest tracks and most remote tracks across the country. With a wealth of experience behind the wheel and behind the lens, Graham brings an authentic perspective on life on and off-road.