Protyre News
How to check your tyres: it takes less time than you think
By Julia Freeman
And it's more important than you think.
We always find time for the little things. A quick coffee, finding the car keys before the school run, scrolling through social media.
Your tyres deserve a place on that list too. Checking them takes about as long as choosing a takeaway, and it's time well spent for peace of mind.
Why a tyre safety check matters
It's easy to leave until tomorrow, but as roads get wetter and more slippery, our message is simple: don't put it off.
Every October, we support TyreSafe's Tyre Safety Month, helping drivers understand how pressure, condition and tread affect braking and steering.
After all, your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road. A quick tyre safety check today helps your car stop and corner as it should, whatever the conditions.
How to check your tyres: make a PACT to keep you and your family safe
You don't need to be an expert. A few minutes is all it takes to ACT, checking your Air pressure, Condition and Tread.
And if you're unsure, there's always the P for Protyre.
A – Air pressure
How do I check tyre pressure? Find your car's recommended pressures in its handbook or on a sticker inside the driver's door or fuel flap. Check when the tyres are cold, using a home gauge or forecourt airline, and don't forget the spare. As well as improving safety, the right pressure reduces tyre wear and improves fuel economy.
C – Condition
What should I look for when checking my tyres? Take a slow walk around the car and look for:
cuts, cracks, bulges or lumps in the sidewall
nails, stones or glass stuck in the tread
uneven wear, which can point to incorrect pressure or wheel alignment issues
T – Tread
How do I check tyre tread? The legal UK minimum tyre tread depth for cars is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the whole tyre.
The quickest way to check is the 20p test: pop a coin into the main grooves at several points. If you can see the coin's outer band, your tread may be close to the limit, so it's worth getting checked.
P – Protyre
Not sure? Pop into your local Protyre for a free tyre check. Our experts will check your pressure, condition and tread and give you clear, honest advice.
How often should I check my tyres?
At least once a month and before any long journey.
Make it a habit by linking it to something you already do, like the first weekend of the month or that monthly takeaway treat.
You've probably checked your phone 100 times today. Check your tyres once and urge your family to do the same.
Don't put it off: book your free tyre safety check
Still scrolling? You could have booked your free tyre safety check by now. Whether you check them yourself or let our team do it, it takes less time than you think – and matters more than you think.
Book your free tyre safety check at your local Protyre today
