Four Warning Signs That Your Tyres Need Replacing

Can you remember when you last replaced your tyres? Proper tyre maintenance is an essential part of keeping your vehicle safe on the road, but it can sometimes get overlooked. Overly worn or damaged tyres give you less control over your vehicle and a poorer grip on the road, especially in bad weather conditions.

Worn tyres also increase the stopping time of your vehicle when trying to brake, which can have serious consequences. It’s important to be aware of any potential tyre issues before they put you and other drivers at risk, so see below for four warning signs that your tyres need replacing.

Not enough tread depth

New tyres have around 8-9mm of tread depth to help them grip the road, but this depth will gradually wear away over time. The law requires all tyres to have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm around the central three quarters of the tyre and you can be fined or gain points on your licence for driving without enough tread.

Some tyres have tread depth indicators to allow you to check at a glance, or if not, you can use a 20p coin. Place it in the main groove of the tread; if you can see the outer ring of the coin, your tyres are too worn.

Old tyres

If your tyres are 10 years old or more it’s a good idea to have them replaced, even if they still seem usable. They might still be safe if your car has very little mileage; most car tyres last for around 25,000 miles, but this will depend on your vehicle and driving style.

You should take your tyres in for a professional inspection once they’re five years old, and by the time they’ve reached 10 years past their manufacturing date, consider a replacement.

Strange noises

Cars can make all sorts of unusual noises, but if you notice a new squeaking, whining or creaking sound while driving, it’s time to inspect the tyres. These noises usually indicate a puncture or crack and are caused by changes in the tyre’s air compression. Don’t ignore any strange noises coming from your tyres as it could lead to a blowout.

A shaky drive

Increased vibration while driving can be caused by several factors, one being a problem with your tyres. A lack of tread depth can lead to a shaky, unstable drive, even on freshly tarmacked roads. Try driving on a smooth surface to see if the shakes improve; if not, it’s time to take your vehicle in for inspection.

If you’re looking for professional tyre sales and fitting in Aylesbury, get in touch with the experts at Acorn Tyres. We’re proud to offer new tyre replacement services, as well as tyre repair and a range of affordable part-worn tyres. We’ve got tyres to suit all budgets without compromising on quality, so give us a call today or contact us via our website.