10 Essential Tips to Protect Your Tyres from Damage and Avoid Costly Repairs in the UK

 

Ensuring the longevity and safety of your vehicle's tyres is crucial for your wallet and well-being on the road. Car tyres are your vehicle's connection to the road. They provide stability and safety to the driver, passengers, and other road users.

 

In the UK, where weather and road conditions can be unpredictable, proactive tyre safety and maintenance is essential. 

 

Here are ten practical tips to help you protect your tyres from damage and avoid expensive repairs:.

 

1. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly

 

Maintaining correct tyre pressure is vital for optimal performance and safety.

• Under-inflated tyres can lead to increased wear, reduced fuel efficiency, and a higher risk of blowouts. 

• Over-inflated tyres may cause reduced traction and uneven wear.

It's advisable to check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. The recommended pressure levels are in your vehicle's manual or on the driver's side door frame.

You may have a vehicle fitted with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). These monitor the pressure of your tyres, and any imbalance between the four tyres on the road. These systems can be fitted when the vehicle is first built, or fitted retrospectively.

Remember that a temperature drop may also affect the pressure in your tyres. As the colder nights of Autumn come, it may be wise to check your tyre pressure regularly.

Finally, not having the correct tyre pressure can increase fuel consumption. With petrol and diesel prices at their current levels, having an optimum fuel economy can save hundreds or even thousands of pounds a year.

 

2. Inspect Tyre Tread Depth

 

Adequate tread depth ensures proper grip, especially in wet conditions.

• The UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

• Driving with tread below this limit can result in fines up to £2,500 per tyre and three penalty points.

A simple way to check tread depth is the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves; if the coin's outer band is visible, it's time to replace the tyre.

You may also find your tyre has a tread depth indicator in the tread grooves. These are ridges to the height of the minimum tread depth. As you move your finger around the grove, you will be able to feel the ridges. If they are at the same depth as the tyre tread, then you are at the 1.6mm legal limit.

The final way to test your tread depth is to use a tyre depth gauge. These are widely available and easy to use.

 

3. Avoid Potholes and Road Hazards

 

Potholes and road debris are common causes of tyre damage.

• Stay vigilant and avoid potholes when safe to do so.

• If unavoidable, slow down to minimize impact.

Regularly inspecting your tyres for cuts, bulges, or punctures can help identify damage early. Driving on a damaged tyre can be dangerous and have safety implications.

The winter months, with the inclement weather, can see roads surfaces deteriorate and potholes appear more regularly. Hitting a pothole can come with serious consequences and impact the life of your tyres.

It is important to check your tyres carefully if you have felt any impact.

 

4. Rotate Your Tyres

 

Rotating your tyres promotes even wear and extends their lifespan.

• It's recommended to rotate tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.

• This practice ensures all tyres wear evenly, improving performance and safety.

This is not possible in every car, for example, where the front tyres may be of a different size than the rear. Swapping the wheels on the same axle may be possible, but you should check with a tyre specialist or the vehicle manufacturer before you undertake tyre rotation.

 

5. Maintain Proper Wheel Alignment and Balancing

 

Misaligned or unbalanced wheels can cause uneven tyre wear and handling issues.

• Have your wheel alignment checked annually or if you notice uneven tyre wear.

• Unbalanced wheels can lead to vibrations and premature tyre wear; ensure they are balanced during tyre installation.

Uneven wear can lead to excessive wear and tear, which means you will need new tyres more frequently. Incorrectly aligned tyres will only lessen tyre longevity. Checking balancing and alignment is an essential part of proper tyre maintenance.

 

6. Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle

 

Exceeding your vehicle's load capacity puts excessive strain on tyres. This can also impact performance and handling and increase fuel consumption.

• Overloading can cause overheating and increase the risk of tyre failure.

• Adhere to your owner's manual for the maximum load rating.  
  

 

7. Drive Smoothly

 

Aggressive driving habits can accelerate tyre wear.

• Avoid rapid acceleration, harsh braking, and sharp cornering.

• Smooth driving not only preserves tyre life but also improves fuel efficiency.

Have you ever seen someone 'wheel spin' their car That wears out the tyre's tread and leads to prematurely worn tyres.

 

8. Use Seasonally Appropriate Tyres

 

Using tyres suited to the season enhances safety and performance. Although using the right tyres for the season is less popular in the UK, it is the norm in harsher climates.

• Winter tyres provide better grip in cold, wet, or icy conditions.

• All-season tyres offer balanced performance year-round but may not excel in extreme conditions.

 

9. Keep Your Tyres Clean

 

Regular cleaning removes debris that can cause damage over time.

• Use warm, soapy water and a brush to clean the tyres, allowing for a thorough inspection.

• Clean tyres not only look better but also help identify potential issues early.

This will not only help with the tyre's aesthetics, but close inspection will also help you identify any defects or if you have picked up a nail or other debris.

 

10. Consider Tyre Insurance           

 

Despite all precautions, unforeseen tyre damage can still occur.

• Tyre insurance covers costs associated with accidental or malicious damage, including punctures and impact damage from potholes or kerbs.

• Policies vary, so it's essential to understand the coverage details and any exclusions.

• Currently, at Total Loss GAP, we can provide tyre insurance quote for a 2-year term.

Tyre Insurance does not cover wear and tear, but it can cover unexpected events like tyre blowouts or damages from potholes or nails. Bear in mind also, that you only have a small window to buy tyre insurance following the purchase of your car. This may be up to 90 days.

 

By implementing these practices, UK drivers can significantly reduce the risk of tyre damage, enhance vehicle safety, and potentially save on costly repairs. Regular maintenance and mindful driving are key to prolonging tyre life.

 

If you have liked our article on 10 essential tips to protect your tyres from damage and avoid costly repairs in the UK, then you may also like: