Michelin has issued special guidance for firms parking fleets of cars and vans for extended periods during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Michelin Delivers Tyre Tips for Cars and Vans
Brian Porteous, Michelin’s Technical Manager – Car, Van, 4×4 and Government Contracts, has detailed steps to follow before laying up vehicles, along with advice on periodic inspections and preparing assets to re-enter service.
He advises: “Tyres can be damaged if certain precautions are not taken before the weight of a parked car or light commercial is supported for long periods, so it’s important owners follow some basic advice to ensure vehicles can be quickly put back into operation when normal business resumes, and without the need to replace tyres unnecessarily.”
Preparing Vehicles
Before laying up a car or van, the tyres should be checked for damage and any cuts or penetrations that may deteriorate over time should be assessed by an expert. Many tyre dealerships remain open, often with mobile technicians available for supporting fleet business.
Inflation pressures should be set at the normal levels for the vehicle. Any tyre which is found to be under-inflated by up to 7psi can normally be re-inflated safely if there are no obvious signs of damage. However, if a tyre is under-inflated by more than 7psi, it should be removed and inspected by an expert to make sure that no structural damage has been caused.
Tyres inflated with nitrogen should have their inflation pressure checked in just the same way as those inflated with air. Whatever the inflation medium, ensure that a valve cap with a rubber seal is fitted to every tyre valve.
Make sure that tyres are not parked on stones or objects that might dig in. Also avoid tyres sitting sitting for long periods in pools of water or other liquids, such as oils. For longer periods, covering tyres to avoid exposure to sunlight will also prolong their life.
During Extended Parking
Even when not in use, tyre inflation pressures should still be regularly checked and corrected as necessary – ideally on a monthly basis, in line with standard Michelin recommendations. Every four months, if a vehicle has not been moved, the tyres should be rotated a quarter turn.
Re-entry into service
Any tyre and wheel assembly which has been stored for a long period, on or off the vehicle, should be visually inspected for damage and any unusual signs before re-entering service. Pressures should be checked and set to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.
Remember that tyres may reach the end of their service life whilst in storage. Tyres which have been in use for five years or more should continue to be inspected by a specialist at least annually. Any tyres in service 10 years or more from the date of manufacture, including spare tyres, should be replaced with new tyres as a simple precaution – even if they still appear serviceable and have not reached the legal wear limit.
