Tyres are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, yet they’re often overlooked until a problem arises. Regular tyre maintenance not only improves your car’s safety but also enhances fuel efficiency, handling, and longevity. Knowing how to inspect your tyres for wear and tear can prevent costly repairs and dangerous driving conditions. This guide walks you through the key aspects of tyre inspection, from tread depth to sidewall damage, and how a mobile tyre service can support your vehicle’s upkeep.
Tread Depth Inspection
The first and most crucial part of checking your tyres is measuring tread depth. Tread is the patterned rubber on your tyre that grips the road. As tyres wear down, their ability to maintain traction—especially in wet or slippery conditions—diminishes significantly. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, but many experts recommend replacing tyres once they drop below 3mm. You can measure tread depth using a tread gauge, or if you don’t have one, the 20p coin test is a quick and easy trick. Insert the coin into the tread groove; if you can see the outer band of the coin, your tread is likely too low and the tyre may need replacing soon. Tread wear can also point to deeper issues like misalignment or suspension problems if it’s uneven.
Look for Uneven Wear Patterns
Tyre wear should be relatively even across the surface, but many cars experience uneven wear due to poor alignment, incorrect tyre pressure, or damaged suspension components. You might notice more wear on the inner or outer edges of the tyre, which is a sign that the wheels could be out of alignment. Similarly, if you see flat spots or feathering along the tread, it could mean that your tyres are overinflated, underinflated, or even that your vehicle’s balance is off. Checking tyre pressure regularly and making sure your wheels are aligned can prevent this from happening. If uneven wear is left unaddressed, it can lead to reduced handling, a bumpier ride, and premature tyre failure.
Inspect the Tyre Sidewalls
Sidewalls play a vital role in maintaining tyre structure and absorbing road impact. Cracks, bulges, or cuts on the sidewalls could indicate more serious internal damage. Even small imperfections can escalate into blowouts when driving at high speeds. Sidewall damage is often caused by curbing, potholes, or simply the ageing of the tyre material over time. If you spot any swelling or visible wires protruding from the sidewall, it is imperative to replace the tyre immediately, as it may not be safe to continue driving. Unlike tread wear, sidewall damage doesn’t always develop slowly—it can appear suddenly and escalate quickly.
Be Aware of Tyre Age
Even if your tyres appear to be in good condition, age can still be a factor. Tyres degrade over time due to environmental exposure, temperature fluctuations, and UV radiation. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tyres that are more than six years old, regardless of how much tread is left. You can find your tyre’s manufacturing date on the sidewall, marked with a four-digit code that tells you the week and year it was made. For example, a code reading “2418” means the tyre was made in the 24th week of 2018. If your tyres are approaching their recommended age limit, it’s wise to have them inspected by a professional—even if you don’t drive your vehicle very often.
How Mobile Tyre Runner Can Help
Keeping up with tyre maintenance can be time-consuming, especially when it involves trips to a garage or tyre shop. This is where Mobile Tyre Runner steps in. As a mobile tyre fitting and repair service, Mobile Tyre Runner brings the workshop directly to you—at home, at work, or even at the roadside. Whether you’ve discovered a slow puncture, uneven wear, or simply need a tyre check, our trained technicians offer convenience and professionalism without disrupting your schedule. We use advanced equipment to check alignment, pressure, and tread depth, and can replace your tyres on the spot if needed. For those who value safety and time, our mobile service makes regular tyre maintenance easier and more accessible.
Conclusion
Regularly checking your tyres is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy. From monitoring tread depth and tyre pressure to inspecting sidewalls and keeping an eye on tyre age, staying vigilant helps you catch issues before they become serious. Uneven wear, cracks, or bulges should never be ignored, and any signs of damage warrant immediate attention. With help from services like Mobile Tyre Runner, tyre maintenance no longer has to be a hassle. Make tyre checks a part of your regular car care routine, and you’ll enjoy safer, smoother journeys for miles to come.
