For travellers and those who tow trailers, tyre safety is often overlooked—yet it’s one of the most critical aspects of a safe journey. At Howard Motor Repairs in Howard, we see first-hand, many times a week along the Bruce Highway, the risks associated with older tyres, even those that appear in good condition.

Even if a tyre looks unused or in good condition, rubber naturally degrades over time to exposure to heat, sunlight, and general ageing. Older tyres on sealed highways, pot-holed roads, or corrugated dirt tracks are prone to blowouts—especially when towing at high speeds.

Most tyres have an expected life span of around 7 years. After this, their structural integrity is questionable, regardless of tread depth or surface appearance. For caravan and trailer tyres, this is particularly important, as towing adds extra load and stress to the tyre.

Even if a tyre has never touched the road, the rubber can still degrade over time. Tyres stored in a garage or shed may look fine but could still fail unexpectedly when put under load.

Old Tyres on your caravan or trailer can blow out unexpextedly while carrying heavy loads and at speed - checked the date your tyres were made - Howard Motor Repairs

Every tyre has a date stamp on its sidewall. This stamp usually consists of four numbers: the first two indicate the week of manufacture (01–52) and the last two indicate the year. If a tyre is 7 years or older, it’s time to seriously consider replacement.

First two digits = week of manufacture (01–52)

Last two digits = year (e.g., 2318 = 23rd week of 2018)

Loss of pressure more frequently than normal

A tyre blowout doesn’t just affect the tyre itself. Suspension components, wheel rims, and even your trailer frame can sustain damage in the event of a sudden failure. For those towing caravans, a blowout can also cause swaying or jackknifing, which can lead to serious accidents.

Inspect tyres regularly, especially before long trips

Replace tyres after 7 years, even if lightly used

Our team offers tyre inspections, replacement and breakdown towing services. Don't forget about your Wheel Bearings as they can sieze up over time and cause additional headaches when they fail. 

Stay safe on the road and avoid costly breakdowns—get your caravan or trailer tyres checked before your next trip.

Ensure your caravan or trailer tyres are safe. Howard Motor Repairs in Howard checks tyre age, warns of risks, and provides expert replacement for safe towing.

Check Caravan & Trailer Tyre Age – Howard Motor Repairs, Howard

Checking the Age of Caravan & Trailer Tyres

Wheel balance refers to how smoothly an individual wheel rotates around its own centre. Unbalanced wheels can cause other parts of your car to wear down faster - such as shock absorbers, struts and steering. If your wheels are not balanced properly it can affect the overall performance and feel of your car. 

Your steering wheel or car vibrates at high speed.

Your tyres have had some rough treatment such as potholes or extremely rough roads. 

Howard Motor Repairs are fully equipped to balance your wheels - if you have any concerns, don't hesitate to make a booking today. 

Wheel balance refers to how smoothly an individual wheel rotates around its own centre.

Wheel Balancing in Howard

Wheel Balancing

RACQ

MTAA

Howard Motor Repairs take great pride in offering their clients personalised, and friendly service at all times. 

Conveniently located in Howard , the business is a member of the Repco Auto Tech training program, ensuring their technicians are kept fully up to date with modern vehicle repair methods. 

Howard Motor Repairs have a wealth of experience in servicing all makes and models, including commercial fleet vehicles. And offers RACQ Breakdown and Towing Services. As a Repco Authorised Service Centre, they have a commitment to high quality workmanship, ensuring the very best in automotive care.


Howard Motor Repairs

Wheel Balancing

You might need a wheel balance when:

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Checking the Age of Caravan & Trailer Tyres