Keeping you safe

Your tyres are the only point of contact with the road surface.  They safely carry you and your loved ones from A to B.  It is therefore vital you check the condition of your tyres regularly. We recommend you check them at least once a month.  Remember, you are not insured when driving on illegal tyres.  A worn tyre reduces the effectiveness of braking, steering and acceleration; all of which are vital in staying safe. 

 
What should you check?
 
The Tyre Industry Council have devised a five point tyre check:

Check overall condition of tyres, including inner and outer sidewalls.

1. Check tyre tread depth.

2. Check all tyre pressures.

3. Check signs of irregular wear, i.e. alignment.

4. Check and examine the spare tyre.

 
We will happily come and give you a free tyre check if you are
unsure of your tyre depth.

 
Tyre Pressures

 A tyre can be under inflated without looking flat. To be safe you should check the pressures once a fortnight. To find out what pressure your tyres should be at please refer to your Vehicle Manual. Remember that tyre pressures should only be checked when your tyres are cold. A good guideline is to leave them for an hour to cool down before checking. Driving on under or over inflated tyres will impede your vehicles handling and will increase tyre wear.

 
Wheel Alignment

 Is your tyre evenly worn across the surface? If not then it could be due to over or under inflation. (Please see Tyre Pressure Section above). If it is only worn on one edge it could be a result of poor wheel alignment. If this is the case you need to have a professional garage check on your tracking.
 

Wheel Balancing

 An unbalanced wheel does not just simply cause an annoying shake at certain speeds it can cause actual mechanical damage.

 
Tread Depth

 The legal limit for car tread depth is 1.6mm (across 75% of the tyre). However the deeper the tread the more grip you have. It is advisable that you replace your tyres when the tread is less than 3mm. 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. Check the pressure, and the tyre treads periodically. It is better to discover any problems in a safe and comfortable environment, i.e. at home, than by the roadside.