Tyre basics - how do I check my tyres?

Every year, thousands of people are involved in accidents that were caused by under-inflated tyres or worn-out car tyres.

That's why it's so important to keep your car tyres in good condition and ensure they're safe for driving.

Are your tyres safe?

When it comes to checking your tyres, it's important not just to check the pressure and tread depth. It's also worth looking out for any damage or wear and tear.

• Check tyre pressure

One of the most common reasons for a tyre blowout is under-inflated tyres – be it car tyres, 4x4 tyres or EV tyres - this is because a tyre is more likely to suffer from heat build-up, which can cause them to burst.

Uneven wear also occurs when your tyres have the incorrect air pressure. If your tyres are underinflated more of the tyre encounters the road, wearing out greater sections of the tyres.

If your air pressure is too great – just the central section of your tyre’s tread is in contact with the road. Leading to this wearing at a quicker rate than the rest of the tyre.

If your tyres have not been checked since you purchased them, the inflation levels may be too low. It is recommended that you check this at least once a month if you drive regularly.

Different car manufacturers require different air pressures for their vehicles. So check your vehicle handbook to find out what the air pressure of your tyres need to be.

• Check tread depth

A tyre with less than 1.6mm tread isn't legal on UK roads. So it is important to periodically check the tread depth of your tyres.

You can do this with either a tread depth gauge. Or if you do not have one of these to hand – you can use a 20p.

Put the 20p in between the grooves of your tyre’s tread. If the outerband of the coin is not visible, your tyres still have enough tread.

When checking your tread depth, it is also a good time to look for any signs of uneven wear or bulges on your tyre.

Are my car tyres roadworthy?

You should always be aware of the condition of your tyres.

There are several things you can check:

• Damage
• Wear
• Wheel alignment (you may need to get this checked professionally)
• Wheel nuts secure and not damaged

What is the tyre minimum legal tread depth?

The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre's tread width. If your tyres don't meet this requirement, you should get them replaced as soon as possible because they could be unsafe and illegal to keep on the road.

Where can I book my tyres in for a check-up?

You can book your tyres in at a garage or take them to an approved tyre fitter. The latter is usually cheaper and more convenient.

Proper tyre maintenance will keep you and your passengers safe.

Your tyres are the only thing between your car and the road, so it’s important to keep them in good condition. They can significantly affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, so regular inspection and maintenance is recommended.

Tyres are one of the most important parts of your car, and they need to be checked regularly.

If you want to avoid getting fined for having unsafe tyres, then make sure that you keep up with this process each month.