As October is Tyre Safety Month, it’s vital to remember to keep your tyres in good condition and make sure they meet the necessary standards to stay safe on the road. Remember, driving with unsafe tyres can result in a fine up to £2,500 and 3 points on your licence.
The National Tyre Distribution Association (NTDA) recommends a number of key tyre safety considerations to keep you and other drivers safe on the road:
1. Regular tread checks: a tyre must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, most repair centres will recommend a minimum tread depth of 3mm before replacement, as grip reduces when a tyre is below this.
2. Remember, tyres perform differently in wet weather: a tyre at 1.6mm in wet conditions takes a car far longer to stop than a new tyre at a 7mm or 8mm tread.
3. Check for tyre imbalance: this can cause handling problems, so it’s important that all tyres are inflated to the correct pressure (check your car’s handbook for details).
4. Check your tyre pressure every two weeks: Under-inflated tyres can cause many problems such as tyre wear, poor fuel economy, handling problems and risk of accidents.
How can Arnold Clark Autoparts help keep your tyres safe?
We offer a range of products to help you maintain the safety of your tyres. If you find your tyres are coming to the end of their life, or your tread is getting low, we have plenty of tyres to choose from, all made by well-known manufacturers. Shop our range of tyres today.
To make sure your tyres are all at the correct pressure, you could also invest in a portable tyre inflator which is easy to use and store in the boot of your car.
It’s also a good idea to consider an emergency care kit in the winter months – an air compressor and tyre puncture sealant kit will be vital if there’s a problem with your tyres while you’re out and about.
Don't get caught out this October. Be prepared and stay safe on the roads.
