Here is a step by step guide to help you check your tyres*

- it’s a lot easier than you think:

* Check your tyres at least once a fortnight and before long journeys.

Tread depth

• If you do not have a calibrated tread depth gauge a 20p coin provides a useful guide.

•  Insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tyres at several places around the circumference of each tyre and across their width.

• If the outer band of the 20p coin is visible when inserted into the tread, your tyres may be illegal and you should have them checked by a qualified tyre specialist. If the outer band is not visible on the coin, then your tyres have a tread depth well above the legal limit.

• The legal minimum for tyre tread in the UK is 1.6mm (over 75% of the central tread part of the tyre). Motoring organisations such as the AA recommend at least 3mm tread for winter driving.

Condition of tyres

• Check tyres for cuts, bulges and remove any stones from the tread.

• Look for signs of uneven tyre wear.
• Uneven wear can signify your vehicle may need attention, for example wheel alignment or tracking- your local tyre specialist can guide you on this.

• If you identify any cuts, bulges or uneven wear or you have any doubts about your tyres condition seek guidance from a qualified tyre specialist immediately.

   

Air pressure

•  Tyre pressure should be checked against the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended level. This can be found in the vehicle handbook and on a plate which is often located inside the fuel filler flap or on the driver’s door sill.

• Check the pressure when tyres are cold (i.e. when you have travelled less than two miles).

• If you are carrying a full load of passengers or luggage or will be towing a trailer or caravan, tyre pressures should be increased in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

• Ensure a reliable and accurate pressure gauge is used – do to a local petrol station.

• Check the pressure in all four tyres not forgetting to check the spare tyre as well.

• Remove the dust cap off each tyre valve, attach the end of the pressure gauge to the valve, fully depress the lever and then release – current tyre pressure will now be displayed.

• If the pressure is correct, remove the gauge and replace the dust cap on the valve.

• To increase the air pressure, depress the lever and keep it held down for a short period, then release and check the pressure again.

• To decrease air pressure, half depress the lever and you will hear the air escaping, release and check the pressure again.

• Once you are happy the air pressure is correct, remove the gauge and replace the dust cap.

If you have any queries about your tyre safety call us on 01926 88 77 22 or call in and we will check your tyres for FREE.