Your car tyres are one of the most crucial elements that determine the safety, control and stopping distance of your vehicle. Whether you are a regular commuter, long distance driver, or simply enjoy exploring the local area around Beverley and East Yorkshire, looking after your car tyres is key.
Drivers can visit the specialist team at Adams Tyre Specialists to benefit from professional tyre fitting and maintenance. But what are the tell-tale signs that you may need to replace your car tyres? Here are the most common indicators that all UK drivers should be aware of.
- Check Your Tyre Tread Depth
The tread on your tyres is what gives your vehicle the grip it needs on the road, particularly in wet weather. As your tyres age and wear down, your car’s ability to throw water away from the contact patch is reduced and you could end up hydroplaning.
In the UK, car tyres must have a minimum depth of 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre and around its entire circumference. However, it is always good practice to get your tyres replaced before they get dangerously low.
It is a good idea to assess your tyre tread depth on a regular basis, especially before any long journeys. You should check the depth across the entire width of your tyres as some tyres may exhibit irregular wear. If you suspect that your tread depth is getting dangerously low, we recommend that you bring your vehicle to Adams Tyre Specialists for a professional inspection.
- Look for Cracks, Bulges and Other Damage
In addition to looking after your car tyres tread, it is important to keep an eye out for any other damage. This could include cracks, bulges, cuts, tears or any other sign that something is not quite right. There could be many reasons that you may observe some form of damage to your car or van tyres. Everyday driving, potholes, kerbs or even road debris may be to blame.
If you notice any damage to the tyres, it is imperative that you get them checked by a professional. There are a number of signs that indicate severe damage and should not be ignored. These include:
Cracks in the tyre sidewall
Bulges or blisters
Cuts or tears
Exposure of internal tyre cords
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is best not to ignore them and to get your tyres looked at by a professional as soon as possible. You should avoid driving on any tyres that have a bulge or exposure of material as they can be potentially dangerous.
- Understand Why Uneven Tyre Wear Matters
Under normal circumstances, tyres should exhibit even or near to even tyre wear. If you notice that one edge of your tyres are wearing faster than the opposite edge or that the tread in the centre is wearing much faster than the centre, this could be an indicator that something is wrong.
There could be several reasons that are causing accelerated tyre wear, the most likely of which include incorrect tyre pressure, wheel alignment problems, issues with the suspension and worn steering parts.
If you notice that your car or van tyres are wearing unevenly, it is best to take them to a specialist to have them looked at. Fitting new tyres in this situation will only be addressing the symptom and not the true cause of the problem. A professional wheel alignment and wheel balancing service can help to identify some of the likely culprits. If you notice that your car tyres are wearing unevenly, it is best to bring them to us so that we can identify the most suitable course of action.
- Choose the Right Tyres for UK Weather
The weather in the UK can be very unpredictable and can change from hot and sunny to cold and wet from one day to the next. Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle and country can make all the difference when it comes to everyday performance.
For example, summer tyres are designed to perform best in hot weather whereas winter tyres have been specifically designed to offer improved grip in cold weather. All season tyres are a good compromise for drivers who would prefer to have just one set of tyres that can be used all year round.
The choice of tyre will ultimately depend on your vehicle, the amount that you drive and local conditions. It is a good idea to consult your vehicle manufacturer before purchasing any new sets of car tyres. We can help you to choose the most suitable tyres for your needs.
- Do Not Ignore Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressures can have a huge impact on a vehicle’s performance and safety. Incorrect pressures can also place additional stress on your tyres and affect fuel economy. Under inflated tyres can cause additional wear and tear on your car tyres due to the extra heat that they produce. Over inflated tyres can also be dangerous and will place undue stress on your car’s wheels and result in uneven tyre wear.
It is a good idea to have your car tyre pressures checked regularly, preferably when they are cold. Always use the recommended pressures as detailed in your car manufacturer handbook or vehicle’s information sticker. It is important to remember to check all four tyres in addition to the spare if you have one. If you find yourself regularly having to pump up your tyre pressures, it is best to get them inspected to see if there is a puncture, faulty valve or other issue.
- Consider Professional Tyre Fitting
If you need help to replace your car tyres, a professional tyre fitting service can ensure that the correct tyres are fitted to your car and that they are all properly balanced. A tyre specialist can help to advise you on which sizes and types of tyres are the most appropriate for your car. Depending on your car and requirements, a range of additional services may be available including wheel balancing, wheel alignment and TPMS checks. If you are a busy driver and do not have much time, you may want to consider mobile tyre fitting. This service can offer a convenient alternative to going to a local garage as a mobile fitting service can come to you. We recommend that you check the availability of this service in your area.
- Make Regular Tyre Checks Part of Your Routine
Checking your tyres should be a regular part of a car maintenance schedule. Spend a few minutes to ensure that your car tyres are safe and road worthy. Make sure that the tread depth is within the recommended limits and that your car tyres show no signs of cuts or bulges. It is also important to check the car tyre pressures and to look out for any changes in how your car or van handles. Before any long journeys, take some time to make sure that your tyres are safe and roadworthy. If your car begins to pull to one side or if you notice unusual vibrations or a slow puncture, make sure that you get your vehicle looked at by a professional. In the meantime, you can always check out our guide on UK government advice and driver safety.
Book Your Tyre Service with Adams Tyre Specialists
Looking after your tyres is a great way to show your vehicle some love and respect. From choosing the correct replacement car tyres to opting for a mobile tyre fitting service, wheel alignment, wheel balancing and puncture repairs, a professional can help to keep you safe. If you are looking for specialist tyre fitting services in Beverley or East Yorkshire, we can help you to choose the most appropriate services for your car.
For more information on all of our tyre fitting services, you can contact us via email or by calling us on 01482 862018.
Do not leave it too late, book your free tyre check now and help to keep every journey safe.