Karawang, ThedailyID — PT Bridgestone Tire Indonesia is urging drivers to prioritize tire maintenance ahead of the 2026 Eid homecoming travel season. The company also launched free tire inspection services along the Cikampek toll road to support safer journeys.
Mudik remains one of Indonesia’s largest annual travel movements. Millions of people travel long distances to return to their hometowns during the Eid holiday.
In a press release issued March 13, 2026, Bridgestone warned that ignoring tire conditions can significantly increase accident risks during long-distance travel. Many motorists focus on engine servicing but often overlook tire safety.
Tires are the only vehicle component that directly touches the road surface. Poorly maintained tires can suffer structural damage or sudden blowouts, especially when vehicles carry heavy loads or travel at high speeds.
“Safety for holiday travelers is our top priority,” said Bridgestone Indonesia President Director Mukiat Sutikno.
“Through reminders about tire maintenance and our Tire Check Service initiative along the Cikampek toll road, we want to ensure vehicles have optimal tire conditions for long journeys,” he said.
Proper tire maintenance plays a key role in safe and comfortable travel. Tires with correct air pressure and good condition reduce the risk of blowouts when vehicles carry heavy loads.
Healthy tires also provide better traction during sudden braking or evasive maneuvers. This becomes especially important when driving on wet roads or sharp turns.
Maintaining proper tire pressure can also improve energy efficiency. Correct inflation reduces rolling resistance and helps vehicles consume less fuel or electric power.
Well-maintained tires also reduce vibration during long journeys. Bridgestone advises drivers to check spare tires before departing.
To support safer mudik travel, Bridgestone Indonesia is providing Tire Check Service (TCS) stations along the Cikampek toll road. The service is operated in collaboration with Toyota and authorized partner Paramita Ban.
The first location will operate at Rest Area KM 57 toward Central and East Java from March 16 to March 29, 2026.
Another TCS station will operate at Rest Area KM 62 toward Jakarta from March 23 to March 29, 2026. Travelers passing through the route can access free tire inspections at these locations.
Bridgestone also warned drivers against common myths about tire maintenance. One misconception is lowering tire pressure during rain to improve grip.
The company said this practice does not reduce hydroplaning risk and may instead damage tires while reducing traction.
Another myth suggests new tires do not require inspection. Bridgestone stressed that new tires still require pressure checks and balancing before long-distance travel.
Drivers should also pay attention to the tire load index. Carrying loads beyond the recommended capacity can cause excessive heat buildup and increase the risk of tire failure.
Bridgestone said the initiative reflects its commitment to improving road safety and providing accessible tire inspection services during Indonesia’s peak travel season.
