このコンテンツでは、子供の習い事や部活動で車を使う多くの人が事故を避けるためにタイヤの重要性について指摘されています。タイヤの摩耗を軽減するためには適正な空気圧が重要であり、車種ごとに異なることが示されています。さらに、タイヤの状態は燃費にも影響し、低燃費タイヤの選び方や地域による違いについても言及されています。最終的には、タイヤ選びに迷った場合は専門家に相談することが提案されています。
In continuation from the previous article, many parents use cars for their children’s extracurricular activities and club activities, being careful not to cause accidents. To prevent accidents, it is necessary to regularly inspect and replace tires, but this incurs costs. It is desirable to use tires for as long as possible within a safe range. This time, Mr. Hiroyuki Ishikawa from Omakase Auto Ishikawa in Nasu-Shiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture, shared with us methods to reduce tire wear and points to consider when purchasing tires.
To reduce tire wear, air pressure is crucial.
――Tires need to be replaced eventually, but we want to use them for as long as possible. Are there any methods to reduce wear?
Mr. Hiroyuki Ishikawa, CEO of Omakase Auto Ishikawa: Tire wear significantly depends on air pressure. When the air pressure is low, the contact area of the tire increases, causing the balance of the tire to be disturbed, resulting in extreme thinning of the inner and outer sides of the tire.
――So, adjusting the right air pressure will make the tires wear less. Is it possible to check the correct air pressure by oneself?
Mr. Ishikawa: The correct air pressure varies depending on the vehicle model, and it is often indicated by a label on the driver’s side door, serving as a reference.
This car is a Toyota Prius. The front tires have 230 air pressure, while the rear tires have 220. Since the Prius has an engine in the front, the front tire air pressure is higher. Depending on the model, the front and rear tires may be the same.
――Why do the correct air pressures for the tires being used currently and the spare tire differ?
Mr. Ishikawa: The spare tire is more expensive at 420 yen because the tire itself is small. The spare tire is designed to be compact for storage and to have high air pressure. The spare tire is intended for emergency use only, so it is safer to avoid long-distance or high-speed driving. It is better to replace the tire as soon as possible.
–How often should air pressure be checked?
Mr. Ishikawa: Ideally, you should check the air pressure about once a month. Using the nearest gas station would be a good idea. Alternatively, if there is a maintenance company that regularly inspects cars, it may be easier to request them to do it.
Tires greatly affect fuel efficiency!
――When driving a car, fuel efficiency is a significant concern, but do tires also play a role in this?
Mr. Ishikawa: Depending on the car’s performance, tires also affect fuel efficiency. Tires are manufactured for specific purposes. For example, fuel efficiency varies greatly between studless tires, all-terrain tires, and low-rolling-resistance tires. The car’s fuel efficiency is determined by the contact area between the tire and the ground, so low-rolling-resistance tires have more grooves. Each tire has a different ride comfort and noise level inside the vehicle, so tire selection varies depending on what is emphasized.
–Do tires vary depending on the region where you live?
Mr. Ishikawa: Unless it is a special case like snowy or gravel roads, there is no regional difference for normal paved roads. Ultimately, road construction is the same.
–What should I do if I am unsure about choosing tires?
Mr. Ishikawa: It would be good to consult the tire shop where you are purchasing the tires. If you convey what is important to you, they will make the right decision. All new tires for sale have passed inspections and can be used with peace of mind. On the other hand, if you are purchasing used tires, be sure to check for tread wear or cracks on the sidewalls. Also, if the studless tire feels soft when pressed by hand, it is fine to buy it. If it is difficult to push, it is safer to refrain from purchasing it.
Editor’s note: Tires play an important role in supporting the car. Please inspect your car regularly to ensure safe driving.
Cooperation: Omakase Auto Ishikawa, President Hiroyuki Ishikawa
Official Website
Interview & Written by: Komomo, Edited by: Kunie, Illustrated by: Watanabeko