Cars are invaluable to most people to help us get around on a day to day basis – from getting to work and back to taking kids to and from school, as well as leisure activities, having a car is something that gives you the freedom to move around with ease and many of us rely heavily on the car.
The wheels of the car keep us safely on the road and when it comes to car care and maintenance, this is one of the most important parts to check regularly. Of course, an annual MOT with a professional like this MOT Gloucester based company 123carandcommercial.com/mot-gloucester will identify any issues with the wheels, but it is also good to be aware of the problems that can occur and make sure that you know what to look out for to keep your car running smoothly and safely.
Low Tyre Pressure – It is important to regularly check the tyre pressure on your car, as tyre pressure that is too low can lead to damage to the wheel itself, a higher puncture risk and more difficulty handling the vehicle all of which can be extremely dangerous, not to mention expensive to put right.
Alignment Problems – If there is a tyre on one side of the car that is worn down more than the other side, this can be very dangerous as it can lead to a decreased grip on the roads – this is dangerous particularly in bad weather.
Missing Wheel Nuts – If you have wheel nuts missing this can be very dangerous – make sure that you regularly check that these are present and also that are tight enough and not at risk of coming loose.
Other common causes of breakdowns
Wheels and tyres are a frequent reason cars end up at the roadside. Debris can puncture a tyre, so check the pressure and tread depth regularly and look for damage to the wheels themselves. A buckled or cracked wheel should be repaired by a specialist before it causes a bigger problem.
The clutch is another major cause of breakdowns, and when it fails completely you will need a recovery vehicle. There are usually warning signs first. If you struggle to change gear or notice the clutch slipping, get it looked at and replaced before it gives out on a journey.
Electrical faults can affect almost anything in a modern car, because there are so many wires and circuits involved. Tracking down the problem normally means a mechanic running a full test of the electrical system. Most drivers will break down at least once, but spotting these signs early, alongside regular wheel checks, gives you a much better chance of avoiding it.
Steering, clutch and brake warning signs
Your steering wheel is often the first place a wheel fault shows itself. If the car pulls to one side as you drive, or the wheel does not return to the centre after a turn, have the wheels checked before the problem gets worse.
Other warning signs sit close by. A clutch that slips or will not go into gear when you want it to almost always means it needs replacing soon, so get it to a garage before it fails completely. Brakes that squeak or squeal also need checking straight away, because they are among the most important safety parts on the car.
Take extra care after a car has stood unused for a long time. Give it a proper health check before it goes back into daily use, and keep watching for these signs once it is back on the road.
Choosing replacement wheels after a problem
If a check turns up damage that cannot be repaired, replacing the wheels is a chance to make a well-informed choice. Wheels affect safety, fuel efficiency and the look of the car, so it pays to think through the options rather than simply picking the first set available.
Material is one of the biggest decisions. Chrome wheels are sought after but can be expensive, although chrome mixed with other metals can give a similar appearance. Alloy wheels are also very popular. Size matters too, and any replacement must be the correct size for the car.
Many drivers favour bigger wheels because they look more striking and put more of the tyre in contact with the road, which can improve grip and handling. A wheel specialist can explain the options in more detail and confirm what will fit safely before any money is spent.