To feel calm on the road and fully enjoy your trip, check the condition of your car and tires before getting behind the wheel. Saving on maintenance before a long journey can have very unpleasant consequences. Waiting for help on the highway and repairs usually take a lot of time and money, especially if a sudden breakdown happens abroad.
Before a trip, scheduled vehicle service includes changing the oil and engine filter, as well as checking the most important components and systems. This also includes checking the condition of the tires. "According to traffic regulations, the minimum tread depth for summer tires is 1.6 mm. However, you need to understand that worn tires are unsafe," says Matti Morri, Technical Director of Nokian Tyres. "When the remaining tread depth is below 4 mm, the likelihood of aquaplaning increases sharply. In summer, unexpected thunderstorms are quite common. Therefore, it is unwise to risk the safety of your family by using worn tires."
Non-studded winter tires are not for summer
Non-studded winter tires are a poor choice for summer roads. The tread of such tires is made of a softer rubber compound designed for winter weather, which means they are inferior to summer tires on wet surfaces. Tests show that on wet roads, the braking distance of non-studded winter tires is 20% longer than that of summer tires. The softer the rubber compound, the less stable it is, and this can lead to swaying of a loaded vehicle during emergency lane changes or sudden turns.
Don't forget to increase tire pressure
After servicing your car, be sure to check the tire pressure before setting off on your trip. "The tire pressure of a loaded vehicle should be 10-15% higher than recommended by the manufacturer. Instructions on this can be found in the vehicle's owner's manual. For example, if the recommended level is 2.5 bar, you need to add 0.25-0.40 bar. Pressure should be checked in cold tires. And after the holidays, don't forget to lower it to normal levels," reminds Matti Morri.
And of course, the most reliable guarantee of a successful summer vacation is a calm driving style and attentiveness behind the wheel. Your passengers will enjoy the trip much more if you drive calmly and safely.
Tips for a safe road trip
- Check the condition of your tires and their remaining tread depth: for safe driving, it should be at least 4 mm.
- Check the tire pressure level. If the car is heavily loaded, increase the pressure. Make sure the spare tire is in good condition.
- Regardless of your vehicle's drive type (front, rear, or all-wheel drive), always install the best tires on the rear axle.
- Check engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
- Check the vehicle's ignition system.
- Take with you a warning triangle, reflective vest, flashlight, first aid kit, as well as tools for changing and temporarily repairing tires.
- Place heavy items at the bottom of the trunk.
- Do not secure heavy items on a roof rack, as this will affect the vehicle's center of gravity.
- Take engine oil and coolant, fuses, and the vehicle's owner's manual on the road.
- Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
