7 Tyre Safety Tips Every Driver Needs to Know

tyre safety

Your vehicle’s tyres are its only point of contact with the road, making them one of the most critical components when it comes to safety. Proper tyre care not only ensures a smoother and more efficient ride, but it can also help you avoid dangerous situations on the road. In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven essential tyre safety tips every driver should know to keep their journeys safe and their tyres in top condition.

1. Check Tyre Pressure Regularly

Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can severely impact your vehicle’s performance and safety. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which not only reduces fuel efficiency but also causes excessive wear. Over-inflated tyres, on the other hand, can reduce grip and make the ride less comfortable by making your tyres more prone to damage from potholes or debris.

What to Do:

  • Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys.
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels, usually found in your vehicle’s handbook or on the driver’s door jamb.

By keeping your tyres properly inflated, you’ll improve fuel efficiency, reduce wear, and most importantly, stay safe on the road.

2. Inspect Tyre Tread Depth

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but many experts recommend replacing tyres when the tread reaches 3mm for optimal safety. Tyres with shallow tread are more prone to aquaplaning, where the tyre loses contact with the road surface during wet conditions, significantly reducing grip and control.

What to Do:

  • Use a tread depth gauge or the ‘20p test’—insert a 20p coin into the tread groove. If the outer band of the coin is visible, it’s time to replace your tyres.
  • Check all tyres, as wear may vary from one tyre to another, particularly if your car has uneven weight distribution or alignment issues.

3. Rotate Tyres Regularly

Tyre rotation is crucial to even out the wear and extend the life of your tyres. Front tyres tend to wear faster than rear ones due to steering and braking forces, especially in front-wheel-drive cars. Regular rotation helps ensure even wear, which leads to better handling and extends the overall lifespan of your tyres.

What to Do:

  • Rotate your tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
  • Follow the appropriate rotation pattern for your vehicle, which may vary depending on whether it’s front-wheel, rear-wheel, or all-wheel drive.

4. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

Overloading your vehicle can place excessive strain on your tyres, leading to increased wear, overheating, and a higher risk of tyre safety issues. Every vehicle has a recommended load rating, and exceeding this can compromise your tyres’ ability to perform safely.

What to Do:

  • Check your vehicle’s maximum load rating, which can usually be found in the owner’s manual or on the tyre’s sidewall.
  • Be mindful when packing for long trips or transporting heavy loads, ensuring you do not exceed this rating.

Keeping your vehicle within its load capacity not only protects your tyres but also ensures that your vehicle handles properly.

5. Look for Signs of Tyre Damage

Potholes, debris, and curbs can cause hidden damage to your tyres, which may not be immediately apparent. Regularly checking for cuts, punctures, or bulges can help you catch potential problems before they lead to a blowout or other serious issues on the road.

What to Do:

  • Inspect your tyres visually for any signs of damage such as cuts, cracks, or bulges.
  • If you notice any unusual wear patterns, have a professional check your wheel alignment or suspension as it may indicate an underlying issue.

Regular inspections are crucial, as catching small issues early can prevent major problems later on.

6. Ensure Proper Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Misaligned wheels or improperly balanced tyres can cause uneven wear and make your vehicle harder to control. This can also lead to vibrations or a pulling sensation when driving, which could increase the likelihood of an accident if not addressed.

What to Do:

  • If you notice uneven wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side, have your alignment checked.
  • Get your wheels balanced whenever you replace tyres or notice vibrations.

Proper alignment and balancing ensure your tyres wear evenly, providing a smoother ride and better fuel efficiency.

7. Replace Tyres When Necessary

Even with the best care, tyres don’t last forever. The average tyre lifespan can range from three to six years, depending on usage and conditions. If your tyres are old, even if they appear to be in good condition, their rubber can degrade over time, which can increase the risk of a blowout.

What to Do:

  • Check the age of your tyres by looking at the DOT code on the sidewall. The last four digits indicate the week and year the tyre was manufactured (e.g., “2219” means the tyre was made in the 22nd week of 2019).
  • Replace tyres after six years, regardless of wear, as ageing rubber can become brittle and less effective.

By keeping your tyres in good condition and replacing them when necessary, you’ll ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

Tyre Safety – Final Thoughts

Tyres are a crucial part of your vehicle’s safety system, and proper maintenance is essential to prevent accidents, reduce costs, and ensure a smooth ride. By following these seven tyre safety tips, you’ll not only extend the life of your tyres but also improve your overall driving experience. Regular inspections, proper inflation, and timely replacements are the keys to tyre safety, so make sure you’re giving your tyres the attention they deserve. Safe driving starts with well-maintained tyres!

Contact Spencers MOT today for professional advice.

This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. By browsing this website, you agree to our use of cookies.