What should be paid attention to when driving on highways with tires?
3 Answers
Tire pressure and tire wear should be paid attention to when driving on highways with tires. Low tire pressure can easily lead to a blowout: If the tire pressure is too low, the tire may deform due to compression while driving on the road, leading to an increase in tire temperature and making it more prone to a blowout. It is important to regularly check if the tire has reached the wear indicator (groove depth) warning line. Tires that have worn down to this mark under normal use should be replaced promptly to avoid potential hazards. Requirements for tires frequently used on highways: It is recommended to use nitrogen for tires. Nitrogen is an inert gas and is less affected by thermal expansion and contraction.
Before every long highway drive, I carefully inspect my tires to ensure everything is in perfect condition. Tire pressure is crucial – too low and it risks a blowout, too high increases friction and accelerates wear. I always use a pressure gauge to check, ensuring cold tire pressure is within the manufacturer's recommended range. I also examine tread depth; if it's below 1.6mm, it's time for replacement, otherwise braking distance increases dangerously on highways, making emergency maneuvers impossible. Additionally, I check for cracks or bulges – these hidden dangers can instantly turn into accidents at high speeds. I once found a nail in time before a trip; a high-speed pressure loss would have been disastrous. In short, spending ten minutes on pre-drive checks is like buying insurance – never compromise on driving safety.
As a seasoned driver, I consider tires the lifeline of high-speed driving. During routine maintenance, I always squat down to check the tire condition, especially the tire pressure—I measure it every time I refuel. In summer, heat can cause the pressure to rise, while in winter, it tends to be too low, affecting handling. Tread depth is also crucial; I either feel it with my hand or check the wear indicator line. Worn-out tires can easily skid on wet highways. Wheel balance is another thing to watch—if there's any vibration, I get an alignment adjustment at the shop. Once, I forgot to check for loose lug nuts, and the car wobbled badly during a high-speed turn, nearly causing an accident. Regular tire rotation also extends their lifespan—I swap front and rear tires every 10,000 kilometers. These small habits make my high-speed driving more fuel-efficient and smoother.