Being stranded on any British road is a problem when you need to change your wheel for a spare one. In Scotland, the problem is often more tricky because of the nature of the rural roads, especially in the north of the country. Unless you happen to be in a built up area, waiting for recovery assistance to help you can mean sitting it out for hours. In winter, roads are often closed due to snow and this can hamper recovery attempts, too. As such, it is better to check your tyres before you make a journey within or outside of Scotland, rather than facing the unwanted problem of jacking your car up by a busy road or waiting for a long time for roadside assistance. Why put yourself or your family at risk? Read on to discover what you should be doing no matter in which local area you are: Angus, Glasgow, Stirling etc. or even in other parts of UK
Look for Splitting Tyres
Take a look at the side of your tyres. When tyres age, they can start to split apart – almost as if they are tearing at the seam. Rubber compounds don’t usually burst straight away but start to split in stratified lines on the tyre’s outer wall. Looking at the side of each tyre and spotting what looks like gouges or bulges usually means that the tyre is ready to blow so needs to be exchanged sooner rather than later.
Check Tyre Tread Depth
In order to maintain good grip on the road, your tyres need a high level of tread depth. This does not mean that your car’s tyres should be at the minimum level to make them street legal only. During rainy or snowy weather, your tyres must be capable of cutting through sufficiently so that they reach the tarmac beneath. Although your tyres might be okay for normal road conditions, it is best to gauge their tread yourself using a tool designed for the job. Remember to check each tyre over its entire circumference because they wear at different rates depending on how you drive. Alternatively, have them inspected by a professional. This takes moments and you can replace them immediately, if needed, when you head to a tyre specialist to look at them for you. For example if you are not too sure where to go for professional treatment, you can buy tyres in Scotland @ Point S and even book the replacement ones you want online beforehand.
Be Prepared for Snow
Exchanging your summer road tyres for winter ones is advisable if you know you will be driving onto high or exposed land. Snow drifts are difficult to pass unless you have winter tyres. These tyres are made from a special rubber which enables them to function properly in lower temperatures. They also offer increased levels of grip on ice. Furthermore, they have little spikes on them, called sipes, which help to provide greater traction in sleet and snow.
Check Your Spare
Although there is no legal requirement to carry a spare in the UK, it is always advisable to do so. Check your spare is properly inflated and ready for use before heading out onto the open road. This simple confirmation will allow you to drive on with confidence and help you to carry on with your journey in the event that you do face a blowout.
What do you think about these tips? Have you experienced road troubles in Scotland or anywhere else?
