Tyres really are the only point of contact between you and the road. You must not neglect the condition of your tyres. Doing so could certainly endanger not only you but other drivers around you. To stay absolutely safe we recommend you give your tyres the once over monthly.
Why check your tyres?
You could invalidate your insurance when driving on illegal tyres? Remember, a worn tyre could reduce the effectiveness of your brakes, acceleration and steering.
What should you check?
Take a look at this 5 point check:
- Check the condition of the tyres (the inner and outer sidewalls especially).
- Check your tyre tread depth.
- Check all the tyre pressures.
- Check signs of irregular wear, have a look under the wheel arch for this.
- Don't forget to check and examine the spare tyre.
Tyre pressures
To be safe you should check your tyre pressures twice a month. To find out your correct tyre pressure refer to your Vehicle Manual. Remember your tyre pressures should only be checked when you have been parked for a while and your tyres are cold. Leave them for an hour to cool down before checking.
Wheel alignment
If your tyres are unevenly worn across the surface it could be due to over or under inflation. (Please see Tyre pressures above). If this is the case you should get a garage to check your tracking.
Wheel balancing
Your tyre purchase should always include a wheel balance. This ensures the tyre and wheel runs evenly on the road and doesn't shake. If you do experience a shake as you increase your speed it is probably because your wheel needs balancing.
Tread depth
The legal limit for car tread depth is 1.6mm. The deeper the tread the more grip you have. It is not just unsafe to ignore the minimum tyre tread depth, it is illegal. For each illegal tyre you face a fine of up to £2,500, and may receive three penalty points.
Spare tyre
Even if you never use your spare it is vital that you check it is in good condition as you never know when you might need it.
Get your tyres fitted at over 900 locations across the UK.
Place your order online or call our call centre, then turn up at your local fitting centre on a date and time that suits you. Organise all this in just a few easy steps online. Click here to get a quote or to place an order. | 
