It is important to check the condition of your car’s tyres, especially now we have fully entered the cold, dark winter months. Well-kept tyres will increase your car’s value, but more importantly, they will keep you safe. Your tyres inevitably suffer a lot of wear and tear, but how do you check them?

If you notice any bumps, or objects stuck to them, then you will need to take a closer look. You can simply remove any stones, sticks, or any other objects yourself. Also, be sure to remove any grease or oil with a suitable diluted detergent.

However, if the tyre has any bumps or bulges then you may have to take it to a specialist, as this could mean there is more serious damage.

You can check the tyre’s tread is a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the thread around its entire circumference – simply by using a 20 pence coin.

Place the coin into the main thread grooves of your tyre, if the outer band of the 20 pence coin is obscured when inserted, then your tread is above the legal limit. But if the outer band of the coin is showing then your tyres are likely to be under the legal limit and are unsafe. Make sure to check a few different locations around each of the tyres to get a more accurate reading.

 If your tread depth is low, then your tyres will not be able to grip sufficiently in wet conditions which can be unsafe. And if you are caught with illegal tyres, you could receive a fine of £2500 and three penalty points for each tyre which is under the limit. So don’t leave it until the last minute, make sure you replace the tyres before they get to the illegal limit…

Another thing to check is whether your tyres are over or under inflated. Underinflation will result in premature wear on the outside edges of the tyre and over inflation will result in an uncomfortable ride and a reduced area of contact with the road. This will mean less grip and increased wear on the tread centre. Correctly inflated tyres will decrease running costs and will ensure your tyres last much longer.

You can find the correct pressures for your tyres within your handbook, inside the fuel filler and online. 

If there are any questions about ensuring your car’s safety or value, then you can contact us at contact@huntingcars.co.uk. We will be here to help you as much as possible to receive the best price for your car and so it sells quickly.

It is completely free to sell your car online with Hunting Cars. We find your best offer from our carefully selected network of five-star car dealers. With Hunting Cars, you can expect to receive 10% more than if you were to part exchange.

Receive instant payment in your bank account before your car is driven away. Congratulations – Sold & Gone via our Hunting Cars Network!