Your tyres are your only point of contact with the road’s surface, and this means that a problem with your tyres is something that you should be aware of and sort out as soon as possible to stay safe on the roads. This includes all aspects of your tyres, including the inflation levels these days. This is because modern tyres are designed to work best at optimum levels of inflation: and this is so crucial to the correct operation of your tyres that it has been enshrined in law in the guise of the MOT test checklist. But why does correct inflation matter so much? Let’s have a look at the hidden dangers of driving on underinflated tyres, as advised by Pontefract’s local garages.
More Wear and Tear
Tyres that aren’t filled to the correct capacity become ‘baggy’ and spread out on the road as you drive along. This deforms the shape of the tyre, and puts more rubber on the road, where it is subject to wear and tear. This can cause damage to the structural integrity of the tyre, leading to damage, cracks and punctures over time. It can also damage the rims of your wheels as the tyre can sag so much that the rims are carrying the weight of the car, instead of being cushioned by the rubber and the compressed air contained within it.
Stress on the Suspension
Pontefract mechanics say that underinflated tyres also put more strain on the suspension system because all the bumps and jolts that correctly inflated tyres would absorb are now passed on to the suspension. The best-case scenario here is that your ride becomes noticeably more uncomfortable, while the worst-case scenario means that you could be at risk of the sudden failure of your suspension and expensive repairs – all because of a lack of air in your tyres! Don’t risk driving on underinflated tyres and make sure you top off or check your levels frequently! No matter if you are just visiting Pontefract from Birmingham – the cake might surprise you as much as Spaghetti Junction surprises visitors to Brum, and the historic castle is always well worth a visit! – or if you are a resident, Reg Greenwood is the go-to local garage for choosing your tyres in Pontefract; offering both comfort and convenience.
Sluggish Steering and Braking
Finally, having under inflated tyres is a tiring prospect for any driver. They can make your steering and brakes sluggish and slow to respond, no matter if you are trying to turn a corner or to stop safely in time for a red light. Even if you do manage to complete the manoeuvre in good time, you will rapidly become physically tired, feeling as though you are urging the car on with your own muscle power.