The heat challenge
The Costa del Sol summer is unforgiving. Air temperatures regularly climb above 35°C, but asphalt temperatures? They can top 50°C. That's hot enough to soften tyres and drastically alter their grip and longevity.
Summer tyres are designed to handle exactly this — rubber compounds that stay pliable in high heat and offer better grip on hot roads than all-season alternatives.
Tyre pressure matters more in heat
Heat causes tyre pressure to rise naturally — sometimes by 0.3 bar or more. Over-inflated tyres wear faster and offer less grip. Check your pressures weekly during summer, preferably in the morning before the sun warms the road.
Tread depth: don't cut it close
Legal minimum tread depth in Spain is 1.6 mm, but we recommend replacing tyres at 3 mm. Thinner tyres lose grip faster in heat and are more prone to puncture on hot asphalt.
Summer tyre maintenance
- Rotate tyres every 10,000 km to ensure even wear
- Check tread depth monthly
- Inspect for cracks, bulges or uneven wear
- Keep pressures at the recommended level (check your door jamb)
- Avoid overloading your car
When to replace
If you're hiring a car for summer, we ensure all tyres are summer-spec and in excellent condition before handover. If you notice any wear or concerns during your hire, contact us immediately — we'll arrange replacement at no cost.