Your car’s tyres play a critical role in your vehicle’s safety, performance, and fuel efficiency. Despite their importance, they are often overlooked until a problem arises. Understanding when and how to check your tyres can help prevent breakdowns, reduce fuel costs, and keep you safer on the road. In this article, we’ll address some of the most common questions about tyre maintenance and replacement.
Tyres should be replaced when they are worn out, damaged, or too old to perform safely. If you notice signs such as shallow tread depth, cracks or bulges on the sidewall, or experience unusual vibrations while driving, it could indicate that your tyres are no longer roadworthy. Even tyres that appear visually fine can deteriorate over time. As a general rule, most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres every six to ten years, regardless of their visual condition.
To determine the age of your tyre, look for the DOT code stamped on its sidewall. The last four digits of this code represent the week and year of manufacture. For example, a code ending in “2319” indicates that the tyre was made in the 23rd week of 2019. Tyres older than six years should be checked regularly for wear and degradation, and those older than ten years should be replaced, even if the tread still looks adequate.
Checking your tyre’s tread depth is a simple but essential task. You can use a tread depth gauge for a precise reading or a quick test using a coin. In the UK, inserting a 20p coin into the tread grooves can give you a rough estimate—if the coin’s outer rim is visible, the tread is too shallow. Many tyres also come with tread wear indicators; if the tread is level with these markers, it’s time to replace the tyre.
While the legal minimum tread depth in many countries, including the UK, is 1.6mm, safety experts recommend replacing tyres when the tread wears down to 3mm. Below this point, the tyre’s grip on wet roads is significantly reduced, braking distances increase, and the risk of aquaplaning rises sharply. Changing tyres before they reach the legal minimum ensures safer driving conditions and better overall performance.
Tyre maintenance should be part of your regular vehicle care routine. By checking for signs of wear, monitoring tread depth, and knowing the age of your tyres, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and improve your car’s safety and efficiency.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your tyres or need professional help, contact Jackson and Phillips Automotive Services. Our expert team will inspect your tyres, offer honest advice, and help you choose the right replacements if needed. Book an appointment today and drive with confidence.
