Top Tips for Tyre Safety
Not counting the odd kick to check air pressure, when was the last time you really inspected your tyres? Keeping your tyres in good shape will not only limit hazards but could save you money over time. Tyres are the only part of the vehicle which contacts the road so the importance of proper maintenance can’t be overstated.
The dangers of using sub-standard tyres can mean reduced road handling, increased braking distances, loss of grip and even blow-outs. Tyres defects consistently rank as one of the top reasons for vehicles failing the NCT.
Here are our top tips for ensuring tyre safety (and helping your vehicle pass the NCT).
Take Care When buying Part-Worn Tyres
Second-hand tyres can be tempting, but a close inspection will show if you're really getting value for money. First, check for an E-Mark on the tyre sidewall; this means it meets minimum EU standards. This mark is comprised of a capital or lower case ‘e’ followed by a number, which indicates the member state of the EU that granted approval. From there, ensure there's a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm. This is vital, as anything less is illegal for use on a public road. If they pass the 1.6mm test, see how close they are to the minimum. They may not be worth buying at all.
Next, inspect for bulges, tears, scrapes and lumps. Consult your car maintenance handbook to ensure the tyre is the right size, speed rating and correct load. Look for the age of the tyre, which should be found embossed on the tyre sidewall. Ensure the tyre isn't more than six years old. Then look for the usual and obvious signs of aging, like fine cracks. If the tyre is a ‘re-tread’ it must bear the word ‘Re-tread’ on its sidewall. The RSA recommend to only use A-rated tyres.
Adjust Your Tyre Pressure
When it comes to tyre pressure, you want to be ‘just right’. Over-inflating tyres can prematurely wear them, while under-inflating them can lead to higher fuel use and overheating. Newer cars are fitted with in-built monitors, while owners of older vehicles should check tyre pressure at least once a month. Your local garage should have these facilities, so all you need to do is check your car manual for the correct pressure and test while the car is relatively cold.
Knowing When Flats are Fixable
If you fix your own flat tyres, know when a tyre can be patched with a home repair kit (i.e., when it’s under one-quarter of an inch tread) and when they need to be replaced. The instructions found in your repair kit will give some guidance on limitations of repair. If in doubt, ask a professional tyre service.
Invest in Tyre Rotation and Alignment
Check your car manual for information on mileage interval recommendations for tyre rotations. If your vehicle pulls slightly to the left or right, it may be time to get your suspension checked and your tyres realigned. Once a year, while getting your vehicle serviced, ask your mechanic to check your wheel alignment.
There is no requirement to have the same tyres on your car, but your car can fail the NCT if the two tyres on the same axle are not the same size or type e.g. radial versus cross-ply. Ideally, the same type of tyre should be fitted in all wheel positions.
Other useful Links:
- What to Do if You Get a Puncture
- Monthly Checks On Your Car
- Driving Habits that can Damage Your Car
- Driving To Save Money
- Fuel Saving Tips
Finally, what about Car Insurance?
As well as ensuring your tyres are in tip top shape, it's important that your Car insurance will be there for you if you need it. At RedClick, we offer custom-built cover, fast claims and offer online discounts* when you get a car insurance quote online. Get a car quote