Tyre Tips

Tyre Types

Tyres come in different types, the most common being Radial. Tyre types should not be mixed; it is illegal to fit different types on the same axle, and it is strongly advised that all wheel positions use the same tyre types. The only exception to this is the use of temporary spare tyres.

Tyre Pressure

Always ensure your tyre pressures are correct! Not only will this make them safer, but it will also prolong the life of your tyres. You can find the recommended tyre pressures for your vehicle in the vehicle handbook. Tyre pressure should be checked regularly, and always when the tyres are cold.

 

Under-inflation of tyres will result in a higher fuel consumption of your vehicle, and over time will cause excessive flexing and wear of the tyre shoulder. Over-inflation of tyres results in a reduced area of contact with the road causing wear on the tread centre, and will mean the tyre is more likely to suffer impact damage.

Tyre Tread

Your tyre tread is designed to provide good grip on wet road, so the more your tyre tread is worn the less effective the grip will be. The minimum legal tyre tread is 1.6mm however the shallower the tread is, the more dramatically the wet stopping distances can be so it is worth replacing tyres before the minimum tyre tread is reached.

Wheels

New tyres should be the appropriate size for the wheels and vehicle, and must never be fitted on damaged, bent or modified wheels.

General Tyre Care

Avoid driving over pot-holes and bumps in the road where possible, even at a low speed this can damage the integrity of your tyres. Never re-inflate a tyre that has run flat or been seriously under-inflated.

Check Your Tyres!

Check your tyres often; if you find any lumps, bulges, cracks or cuts in the tread or sidewall then these should be checked by a tyre specialist. Remove any objects your find embedded in the tread, and check for wear on the tread. If you notice an increase in air loss, noise or vibration when the car is moving then this could be a sign that one or more of the tyres should be checked by a specialist immediately; if you have any concerns about your tyres call us on 020 8543 4278 to discuss.

Repairs and Replacements

Tyre repairs & replacements should only be carried out by a tyre specialist! All permanent repairs can only be done following a complete inspection of the inside and the outside of the tyre. Incorrect fitting of a tyre could result in damage to the tyre and unsafe tyres. New wheels should be balanced once fitted.

 

We offer a complete tyre service, call now on 020 8543 4278.