5 Common Tyre Myths Busted
Think you know your tyres? You might be surprised.
There’s plenty of advice about tyres, but not all of it is accurate. From tyre pressure and tread depth to what happens when you get a flat, some common tyre beliefs are simply myths.
So, we’re separating fact from fiction and busting some of the most common tyre myths.
Myth #1:
“The number on my tyre is the pressure I should use.”
BUSTED!
It’s easy to assume the number on your tyre’s sidewall tells you how much air to put in it. But the correct tyre pressure is actually determined by your vehicle manufacturer and can vary depending on your vehicle, tyre size and load.
Check your vehicle’s tyre placard or owner’s manual for the recommended pressure. Bridgestone recommends checking your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long trips, with tyres cold for the most accurate reading.
The takeaway
Follow your vehicle manufacturer's recommended tyre pressure—not the maximum pressure shown on the tyre sidewall.
Myth #2:
“All tyres are basically the same.”
BUSTED!
They may all look similar, but tyres can be very different beneath the surface.
Construction, tread pattern, compound, size, load capacity and speed rating can all vary between tyres, influencing characteristics such as handling, braking, comfort and durability.
That’s why choosing the right tyre is about more than finding one that fits your vehicle.
The takeaway
Choose tyres that are suited to your vehicle and the way you drive.
Myth #3:
“My tyres still have plenty of tread, so they must be fine.”
BUSTED!
Tread depth matters, but it isn’t the only thing to consider.
If your tyres still have visible tread grooves and are above the legal minimum of 1.6mm, it’s easy to think they have plenty of life left. But tread depth is only one part of the picture when it comes to tyre condition.
Bridgestone recommends maintaining at least 3mm of tread, as wet grip is dramatically reduced once tread reaches 3mm or less. So, while a tyre may still look like it has plenty of tread, its wet-weather performance may already be declining.
You should also look for uneven wear, cracks or other visible damage. Bridgestone also recommends that tyres that have reached 10 years old be removed from service regardless of visual condition. At this age, the bond between the tyre’s internal components can start to fail at short notice.
The takeaway
Don’t judge your tyres by tread alone. Check their tread depth, condition and age regularly to help ensure they’re fit for the road.
Myth #4:
“My car drives straight, so I don’t need a wheel alignment.”
BUSTED!
Pulling to one side is just one possible sign of a wheel alignment issue.
Uneven tyre wear, a crooked steering wheel, vibration or changes in handling can also indicate that your wheels may need checking. Hitting potholes, kerbs or other obstacles can also affect alignment.
The takeaway
If your steering or tyre wear doesn’t look or feel right, it’s worth getting your wheel alignment checked.
Myth #5:
“My spare tyre has to match the tyres on my car.”
BUSTED!
Not every vehicle is equipped with the same type of spare tyre. Some vehicles have a full-size spare, while others may have a temporary spare or, in some cases, no spare at all.
The important thing is to make sure your spare is appropriate for your vehicle and used according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s also worth checking that your spare is correctly inflated and in usable condition before you need it.
Some vehicles are also fitted with Run-Flat Tyres, which are designed to provide temporary mobility following a loss of air pressure.
The takeaway
Your spare doesn’t necessarily have to match your regular tyres, but it does need to be suitable for your vehicle and used according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Know the Facts. Look After Your Tyres.
Regular checks, following your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations and getting professional advice when something doesn’t look or feel right can all help you get more from your tyres.
Not sure about your tyres? Visit your local Bridgestone store and speak to our tyre experts.
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