Tyre structure

Tread, shoulder, sidewall, bead, carcass, belt, inner liner, and other components are structurally connected to complete the scientific structure of a tyre.

Tread (the part that has direct contact with the road surface)

The tread consists of a thick layer of rubber which comes into direct contact with the road surface. It is highly resistant to fracture and shock in order to protect the carcass and belt located in the tyre’s interior. Also, rubber with strong anti-inner abrasion features is used to increase the tyre’s driving lifespan.

Shoulder (the shoulder of the tyre)

Located between the tread and sidewall, the shoulder is the thickest part in a tyre. Because of this, the shoulder is designed to quickly and easily dissipate heat that accumulates inside the tyre while driving.

Sidewall (the side of the tyre)

Located between the tyre’s shoulder and bead, the sidewall protects the carcass on the inside and provides a comfortable riding experience due to its flexibility during driving. Also, the type of tyre, size, structure, tread pattern, manufacturer, brand name and other detailed information are marked on the sidewall.

Bead (the part that is in contact with the rim)

The bead wraps around the end of the cord and fixes the tyre to the rim. It is made up of various parts including the bead wire, core, rubber and flipper. In general, the rim is slightly tightened so in the case of sudden reduction of air pressure while driving, the tyre will not become unfastened from the rim.

Carcass (the framework of the tyre)

The carcass is the framework of the tyre, the most important part. The carcass refers to all layers made up of tyre cord. It absorbs the tyre’s internal air pressure, weight and shock.

Breaker or belt (the layer in between the tread and carcass)

The breaker is a cord layer placed in between the tread and carcass to protect the carcass. It absorbs external shock and prevents splintering or injury to the tread from coming into direct contact with the carcass. At the same time, the breaker prevents the separation of the rubber layer and carcass. The belt is a strong reinforcement layer located in the circumference in between the tread and carcass in radial tyres. The belt’s functions are similar to those of the breaker but it also reinforces the strength of the tread by firmly tightening the carcass.

Inner liner

The inner liner substitutes for the tube in the tyre’s interior and consists of rubber layers with low air permeability. The rubber layer generally consists of butyl, synthetic rubber or polyisoprene type. The main function of the inner liner is to hold high-pressure air inside.

Tyre pressure

The tyre inflation pressure is directly related to safety. Therefore, tyre pressure must be checked regularly, and proper maintenance can prolong the lifespan of the tyres. Learn about the importance of tyre inflation pressure and how to check the pressure of your tyres.

Importance of tyre pressure

- Optimum air pressure should be maintained to ensure safety, driving performance, tyre life and fuel cost.
- Tyres have been known to lose up to one psi in a month (psi: pound per square inch) Therefore, it is important to check all tyres, even the spare, at least once a month or before a long trip.

Recommended interval

Tyre pressure should be checked every month.

Checking for optimum tyre pressure

Laufenn tyre recommends you to check your tyre pressure once in a month.
The optimum air pressure level for your tyre can be found on the inner side of the car door, inside the fuel cap or in the car manual (the location of the sticker can vary according to country).
DO NOT compare your inflation pressure to its maximum pressure marked on the tyre’s sidewall.

How to check tyre pressure

1. Purchase a certified air pressure gauge or take your vehicle to a nearby service centre (or gas station) for a check-up.
2. Tyres must be checked in a “cold” state (at least three hours after driving).
3. Insert the gauge into the valve.
4. Compare the measured air pressure level with the level listed on the car door.
- If the measured figure is higher, release air until the figure matches what is listed on the car door.
- If the measured figure is lower, insert more air until the figure matches what is listed on the car door.

Maintenance

Tyre wear directly affects the driver’s safety and the performance of the vehicle. It is essential for the driver to be well-informed about how to check for tyre wear regularly.

Importance of checking for tyre wear

The deeper the groove, which is on the surface of the tyre, the more grip a tyre will have. You can prevent danger of unexpected accidents by checking for tyre wear on a regular basis.

Recommended interval between check-ups

Laufenn tyre recommends that you check for tyre wear once each month. Also, make sure to do a check once more after long distance travel.

Checking for tyre wear with tyre tread wear indicator

You can check for the depth of the groove by using a tyre tread depth gauge or by observing the tread wear indicator on the side of the tyre. To ensure optimum safety and performance, tyres should be replaced when the tyre groove wears below 2mm to 3mm.

Rotation

Periodic rotation prevents uneven wear, prolonging the life of your tyres. Learn about the importance of tyre rotation and how to rotate them.

The importance of tyre rotation

Periodic tyre rotation helps extend the life of your tyres and improves performance level. For safe driving and saving money, please refer to the rotation method below.

When to rotate your tyres

In general, it is best to rotate tyres every six months or 10,000km. Changing tyre position to an alternative position ensures even wear and long life of the tyre.

Balance

Tyre balance must be checked if there is unexpected vibration or noise from a tyre. Learn about the importance of tyre balance, which is necessary for a comfortable driving experience, and when to inspect a balance.

The importance of tyre balance

Tyre balancing is a process of compensating for the weight of the tyre and wheel after assembly. If not properly balanced, it increases vibration and causes stress to your vehicle.

When to inspect for tyre balance

If you feel a vibration from a tyre, visit a mechanic. A mechanic will attach a balancing weight to the exterior or interior of the wheel to counteract centrifugal forces acting on the heavy areas when the wheel is turning.

How to balance tyre and wheel

To balance the tyre and wheel assembly, a balance weight can be used when a certain spot is lighter or heavier than it should be.

Wheel alignment

To prevent vibration, skidding, noise and wear, wheel alignment inspection is necessary. Learn about useful information regarding wheel alignment and how to perform an inspection.

The importance of wheel alignment

The purpose of wheel alignment is to adjust front-wheel handling while driving. If wheel alignment is off, tyre life is shortened while car and mileage performance also decrease.

When to check wheel alignment

Laufenn tyre recommends inspecting wheel alignment every year or every 20,000km. The inspection is required:
- After a car accident.
- After tyre replacement.
- When there is uneven wear on a shoulder.
- When the steering wheel is unstable and/or vibrating
- When riding is uncomfortable or fuel efficiency gets worse

Replacement

In order to ensure a safe and comfortable ride, it’s strongly recommended that all drivers know when and how to replace tyres.

The importance of tyre replacement

Timely replacement of the tyre is critical for driver safety and also influences vehicle lifespan and performance.

When to replace a tyre

- In case of severe tyre erosion.
- In case repair is impossible due to tyre puncture.

How to replace a tyre

In the case of a damaged tyre and wheel, professional consultation is recommended. Tyre replacement should only be done by a trained and highly experienced technician.

Tips for tyre replacement

- It is the best to replace two tyres on one axle at the same time.
- The replacement of only one tyre of the two tyres on the same axle usually causes to unbalance the vehicle.