New Year Tyre Checks!
23rd January 2015Four small patches of rubber - that?s all that stands between you as a driver and potentially, a very fast moving road. Having the right tyres fitted to your car is vital, but how you look after your tyres is just as important. Regular checks and maintenance help to make your tyres last longer, save you money, keep you safe and also keep you on the right side of the law!
You should check the condition of your tyres on a regular basis. This is not only to ensure the safety of the vehicle but to also make sure your tyres are legal and you are fully insured.
This new year why not start as you mean to go on, and learn how and when to check your tyres. Here are some top tips to follow when checking your tyres?
Tyre Condition
You should check the overall condition of your tyres about once a month. Clean away any objects stuck in the tread. If you see signs of irregular wear or lumps/bulges have your tyres checked by a professional as they may need replacing.
Tyre pressures
Having the correct tyre pressures is vital for safety, braking, grip and overall tyre life. Your vehicle handbook will have all the recommended pressures for your car as this will vary depending on the load of the car. It?s best to check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold as there is an increase in pressure when the tyre has warmed up. If you can?t measure the pressure from cold, within 3 miles of starting the car is also adequate. Check your tyre pressure every two weeks using a reliable and accurate tyre pressure gauge. Most filling stations offer this service for a small fee.
Tyre Tread depth
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK for a car is 1.6mm. This must be across the centre ¾ of the tyre tread. Ideally, for your own safety you should change your tyres well before they reach the legal minimum. Wet grip deteriorates rapidly below 3mm and stopping distances increase drastically in the second half of a tyres tread life. Use a 20p piece to measure your tyre tread depth. You can find out how to do this on our tyre safety page.
So start the New Year with a fresh attitude toward driving and the maintenance of your car. Check your tyres on a regular basis and know that your safety, as well as the safety of others is covered.
If you have any queries regarding the condition of your tyres, tyre tread or tyre pressure, call our helpful staff at your nearest Malvern Tyres Group Branch. We are happy to help with any tyre queries you might have and if you are in need of new tyres, we offer a huge range of brands for all budgets, available to buy online and have fitted at a time and place to suit you.
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