How to Inspect Tyres on a Vehicle
Looking to make a new purchase?
Buying a classic or used car can be a smart choice, but it’s important to look beyond the paintwork and mileage. Tyres are one of the most critical safety components on any vehicle, and their condition can reveal a lot about how the car has been maintained. At Bridgestone Australia, we want to help you make a confident purchase by knowing exactly what to look for.
1. Check Tread Depth
Tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm to be road legal in Australia. Anything less compromises grip and safety. For peace of mind, many experts recommend replacing tyres once tread depth reaches 2 mm. A simple way to check tread depth is the coin test: insert a 20‑cent coin into the tread. If the platypus bill is visible, your tyres may be below the legal limit and need replacing. For more tips on tread depth and when a tyre should be replaced, visit Tyre-Tread-Check.
2. Look for Uneven Wear
Uneven tread wear can point to issues with wheel alignment, suspension, or steering. If parts of the tyre are more worn than others, it may indicate poor maintenance or hidden mechanical problems.
3. Inspect for Damage
Uneven tread wear can point to issues with wheel alignment, suspension, or steering. If parts of the tyre are more worn than others, it may indicate poor maintenance or hidden mechanical problems.4. Confirm Tyre Age
Even if the tread looks fine, tyres deteriorate over time, including internal, non-visible areas. Look for the DOT code on the sidewall — the last four digits show the week and year of manufacture. Tyres older than 5 years may require closer inspection of symptoms of aging. If the tyres are nearing 10 years old, regardless of tread depth, you'll need to budget for a new set on top of the purchase price of the vehicle.
5. Ensure Tyres Match
Ideally, all tyres should be the same brand and product name. Mismatched tyres can impact handling and stability.
6. Don’t Forget the Spare
Always check the spare tyre. Make sure it’s present, properly inflated, and in usable condition.
Final Thoughts
A careful tyre check gives you a clearer picture of the vehicle’s true condition, helping you buy with confidence and drive away safely. It’s a worthwhile check that sets you up for safer, more reliable driving from day one!
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