It’s that time of year again…. Tyre Safety Month
Do you know how to check if your tyres are safe? Check out our top tips and safety advice.
October 18, 2023
Tyres are a very important part of maintaining your vehicle and here are 6 reasons why.
1. Tyre Tread Depth:
The tread on tyres should have adequate depth to maintain good traction on the road. The minimum legal tread depth requirement is usually around 1.6mm, but it is recommended to have at least 3mm for optimal grip and safety, especially during wet or icy conditions.
2. Tyre Pressure
Accurately inflated tyres are crucial for safe driving. Underinflated tyres can lead to poor vehicle handling, increased fuel consumption, and increased risk of blowouts. Overinflated tyres can cause reduced grip and uneven wear. It is important to regularly check and maintain the correct tyre pressure as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
3. Tyre Conditions
Inspecting your tyre's overall condition is very important, you should look out for any signs of damage such as cuts, bulges, or cracks as these can cause structural damage to the tyre, if you notice your tyres have any of the above, they should be replaced immediately.
4. Tyre Age
Over time tyres will deteriorate even if they do have plenty of depth. It is generally recommended to replace tyres that are more than 6 years old, regardless of their apparent condition. Tyres that are too old can become brittle and prone to failure.
5. Seasonal Consideration
Taking into consideration that weather is a big part of tyre safety, switching to winter tyres can be effective during the winter months when there is snowfall and icy conditions.
6. Load Capacity
It is also important to check your vehicle can handle the load being carried, overloading a vehicle can put excessive stress on the tyres which can lead to increased wear and tear and damage to tyres.
Enjoy driving and stay safe on the roads.