By Rev & Shift Automotive Guides
Your car tires are the unsung heroes of every journey. Whether you're navigating through Nairobi traffic, tackling rugged terrains in Kajiado, or cruising on the Mombasa highway, tire care can make or break your driving experience. This guide offers real, practical advice on maintaining your tires—backed by facts, mechanic wisdom, and real Kenyan conditions.
Why Tire Maintenance Matters in Kenya
In Kenya, road conditions can vary dramatically within a few kilometers—from well-tarmacked city roads to rough rural paths. Poor tire maintenance not only shortens the life of your tires but also poses safety risks. Blowouts, skidding, and reduced braking ability are common outcomes of ignored tire issues.
1. How to Check Tire Pressure Correctly
Use a quality gauge and check when tires are cold. Most cars require 30–35 PSI. Underinflation increases wear and fuel use, while overinflation reduces grip. If you fuel at stations like Shell or TotalEnergies, most have free gauges.
2. Tread Depth – The 5-Shilling Test
A worn tire can’t grip the road properly. Insert a 5-shilling coin upside down into the tread groove. If you can see the shield fully, it’s time to replace the tire. The legal tread depth minimum is 1.6mm, but for safety, replace at 3mm.
3. Wheel Alignment & Balancing
Have you noticed your steering pulling to one side? Uneven tire wear? These are signs your car needs alignment. Poor alignment can lead to premature tire wear and even increase fuel use. Ask your mechanic to use laser or computerized systems for accuracy.
4. Rotate Your Tires Regularly
To ensure even wear, rotate your tires every 8,000 to 10,000 km. This is especially important for front-wheel drive vehicles common in Kenya like the Toyota Fielder, Mazda Axela, or Honda Fit.
5. Fleets and Tire Management
If you manage a fleet—such as delivery bikes, matatus, or ride-sharing cars—track tire health actively. Simple logs or digital tracking can prevent downtime and save millions in annual expenses.
Local Tire Shops & Brands to Consider
- Yana Tyres: Affordable and locally produced
- Dunlop: Reliable grip and good lifespan
- Michelin: Premium performance but costly
What NOT to Do With Your Tires
Don’t ignore vibrations. Don’t drive with mismatched tires. And avoid second-hand tires with unknown histories—they may be cheaper, but the risk is high.
Bonus Tip: Use the Right Tire Size
Your car manual or the door sticker lists recommended tire size. Don’t oversize or undersize for aesthetic purposes—it can harm suspension and fuel economy.
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Conclusion
Proper tire care is more than just a routine chore—it’s a safety, budget, and performance decision. Kenya’s roads can be unpredictable, but your car doesn’t have to be. By following the steps above, you empower your vehicle and secure your family.
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