Regularly checking and cleaning your tyres is an important job and can help you to keep your tyres safe and legal and extend their life. As well as checking that your tyre tread meets the legal limit and your tyres are inflated to their correct pressure, you should frequently clean your tyres.
Small tyre maintenance tasks such as cleaning your tyres regularly can help to increase the lifespan of your tyres which will save you time and money. In addition, cleaning your tyres can enhance traction and grip, resulting in a safer drive.
Cleaning your tyres will give you an opportunity to inspect the condition of your tyres and notice any signs of tyre damage before they develop into more serious problems. You may also be able to prevent damage before it happens by removing stones, grit and any other debris which may be lodged in the tyre tread.
Furthermore, brake dust accumulates on your tyres and wheels over time which can lead to corrosion and even surface pitting. Frequently cleaning your tyres and removing brake dust will prevent this from happening, helping to keep your tyres and wheels in good condition.
Washing your car tyres and wheels can often be an afterthought, however, it is important that you pay attention and clean them properly. Take a look at our step by step guide to cleaning your tyres effectively:
Always clean your tyres and wheels last when washing your vehicle to avoid spreading dirt and grime on to the paintwork of your car.
Start off by hosing off your tyres to remove larger clumps of dirt from the tyres and the wheel arch.
Scrub your tyres with a tyre brush or a soft bristled brush such as a paintbrush. This will enable you to clear any dirt and debris away from the tyre tread.
Use a specialist spray to help remove dirt and brake dust from your wheels. You should choose a cleaning solution that is suitable for the wheels that you have – if you are unsure, use a product that is designed for all wheel types.
Wash and rinse your wheels following the instructions on the tyre cleaner that you are using.
Rinse your tyres and wheels thoroughly with clean water, ensuring that you remove all suds and solution. You should also dry your wheels with a microfibre cloth to avoid rusting.
If you find any signs of tyre damage or believe your tyre has suffered a puncture you should contact your local Merityre Specialists for further advice.
Never drive on damaged tyres as there may be underlying structural issues with the tyre that could cause a blowout whilst driving.
If you have noticed any of the signs listed above, we would recommend visiting your local Merityre Specialists branch for a free tyre health check. We will check the condition of your tyres and offer advice if they need to be replaced.