We all know how important tyres are, but few people remember to check them between MOT tests. If your tyres aren’t within legal requirements, you could be stopped and fined. More importantly, however, bald or worn tyres are extremely dangerous; they don’t provide enough grip to the road and can cause accidents. As your tyres wear down, your vehicle could become harder to handle. Try to check your tyres at least once a month, so you stay on top of it.
Signs and Causes of Tyre Wear
1. Tyres are worn on both edges. This means that your tyres aren’t inflated enough. Check your manufacturer’s recommended tyre pressures and make sure all your tyres are inflated within recommendations. If you regularly check tyre pressure, check your tyres for leaks or slow punctures – a tyre specialist can help.
2. Tyres are worn down the centre. This means that your tyres are overinflated, causing the centre to puff out of shape. This can cause a blow out, and can also make your car harder to handle as less of your tyre is in contact with the road.
3. Tyres are unevenly worn or worn on one side. This can indicate that your tyres are misaligned – take your vehicle to a local garage to get your tracking and alignment checked.
4. Damaged sidewalls. Your sidewalls don’t come into direct contact with the road, but they can take a pounding from debris on the road, not to mention curbs! When you check your tyres, check the side walls for perished marks, bubbles or bulges. If you see any wear and tear, including holes or slits, take your car to your local tyre centre for advice.
5. Random bald spots on the tread. This can indicate two things: that your wheels are not aligned properly, and that the shocks are worn. Take your vehicle to the garage to be checked out.
6. Worn edges on front tyres. This means that you drive a little bit too fast on the corners! Take your time and slow down; nothing is urgent enough to risk accident or injury.
7. If you can see your treadwear indicators... Your tyres are giving you their final warning! You shouldn’t be able to see the trim indicator, so if you can see them you definitely need to replace your tyres.
If you are in doubt about whether you need to invest in new tyres, don’t be afraid to ask a local garage; they are unlikely to charge you for taking a quick look and a reliable mechanic will be honest with you, even if you don’t need to change your tyres yet. For help choosing which tyres are best for you, check out our blog “Brand or Budget?”.
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