Maintaining your tyres properly is one of those things that sounds obvious, yet it’s surprisingly easy to get wrong. For busy London families juggling school runs, work, and weekend plans, tyres often fall into the “I’ll deal with that later” category. But tyres are the only part of your car that actually touch the road, so their condition directly affects braking, handling, and even fuel efficiency.
Looking after them doesn’t just keep your family safe — it can also save you money by extending tyre life and reducing unnecessary wear. If you’re hoping to keep costs down when it comes to tyres in London, a reputable service like DAT Tyres can help with expert fitting and advice.
Here are some of the most common tyre mistakes drivers make — and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Tread Depth
In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. That’s the bare minimum, though — many experts recommend replacing tyres once they reach 3 mm, especially if you regularly drive in wet conditions.
Worn tread reduces grip, increases stopping distances and raises the risk of aquaplaning.
According to TyreSafe, around 25% of vehicles on UK roads have at least one tyre below the legal tread limit. The RAC also reports that worn tyres contribute to over 30% of tyre-related breakdowns.
A simple way to check is the 20p test. Insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves — if you can see the outer rim of the coin, your tyre may need replacing. It’s also worth checking for uneven wear, which can signal alignment or suspension issues.
For families, it’s sensible to check tread before long trips or at the start of each school term.
2. Driving With Incorrect Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure affects more than you might think. Under-inflated tyres can make the car feel sluggish and increase fuel consumption, while over-inflated tyres reduce road contact and grip.
Incorrect pressure can even increase stopping distance by up to 12%, which matters a lot in busy city traffic.
Try to check tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. Use the recommended pressure levels listed in your vehicle handbook. A small digital gauge kept in the glove box makes quick checks much easier.
Always check pressure when the tyres are cold, as readings can rise after driving.
3. Forgetting About the Spare Tyre
Spare tyres are often forgotten until they’re suddenly needed. Unfortunately, rubber deteriorates over time, even if it hasn’t been used.
Breakdown services report thousands of preventable roadside incidents each year due to flat or faulty spare tyres.
Check your spare at least once a year for pressure and visible wear. If your car doesn’t have a full-sized spare, make sure your repair kit is complete and functional before heading off on longer journeys.
4. Overlooking Visible Damage
Cuts, bulges, cracks or embedded objects can seriously weaken a tyre. Damage often happens after hitting potholes or kerbs — something London drivers know all too well.
The RAC confirms that tyre-related faults are one of the most common causes of breakdowns, many of which could have been spotted with a simple visual check.
A quick weekly inspection can help you catch issues early. Look closely at sidewalls and tread for anything unusual, especially after a heavy bump or pothole.
If you notice anything concerning, book a professional check as soon as possible.
5. Skipping Professional Inspections
Not every tyre issue is visible to the naked eye. Alignment problems, internal damage and uneven wear patterns are best spotted by professionals.
Wheel misalignment alone can reduce tyre lifespan by up to 20%, leading to earlier replacements and unnecessary expense.
Booking at least one professional tyre inspection per year — particularly before school holidays or longer family trips — is a simple way to protect both your budget and your passengers.
Looking after your tyres isn’t just about passing an MOT. It’s about keeping your family safe, improving fuel efficiency and avoiding costs that could easily be prevented.
With a few regular checks and the support of a reliable tyre service in London, you can make sure your car is ready for everything from the daily school run to longer family adventures.
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