Are your tyres worn down? Are they old and causing you stress about legal limits?

If so, you’re in the right place! These are 5 warning signs to tell if you need a fresh new set of glistening tyres.

Tread Depth Is Too Low

The tread grooves on tyres have a legal minimum depth of 1.6mm. To measure this, easily use a 20p coin and place it inside each groove. You may be wondering, “What is the 20p trick for tyres?“. The way it works is if the outside line of the 20p coin is showing, this indicates that the tyre tread depth is TOO LOW. This could result in paying legal fees up to £2,500, three penalty points per tyre, and becoming a danger to other drivers on the road!

This is because the treads on tyres help with grip when it is raining, increasing traction, making braking quicker. Decreasing braking distance helps to slow down quicker to avoid the impending doom of a crash. And decreasing the risk of aquaplaning, meaning you don’t lose control when it’s raining outside and doing some unintentional Tokyo drifting.

Cracks and Bulges in Tyre Sidewall

Tyre sidewall damage is caused by the tyres being scratched or impacted by the curb or potholes. This can, over time, cause noticeable damage to the tyre sidewall and cause cuts and bulges.

Cracks aren’t always noticeable, but can be dangerous and can lead to tyre failure in the worst of cases. Checking your tyres after you feel something noticeable is a good rule of thumb, as it reduces the chance of cracks slipping under the radar.

Bulges are when the tyre sidewall weakens enough to the point where air creates a lump. This is BAD, and lots of care must be taken to ensure no more damage is done, as you don’t want them to burst. In this case, this is a sign it’s time for new tyres.

Puncture

Punctures are very common and a pain! They cause leaks in tyres, which can cause irreversible damage if not checked regularly. This is caused by debris such as nails, glass and any other sharp object being lodged into the tyre and making a hole for air to escape. Depending on the size of the hole, this can deflate tyres extremely quickly or slowly over time.

Punctures don’t always require you to replace your tyre, as they can be repaired. However, in cases where punctures have gone untreated for extended periods or have punctures in an awkward location, it’s necessary to have them replaced.

Uneven Wear

Uneven wear is caused by tyre pressure. Overinflation causes wear to the middle of tyres, which is due to the tyres having an excess amount of air. Making them bulge out in the centre part, causing tread wear only to that specific area.

Similarly, this applies to the outside of the tyre when the tyre is underinflated and has too much pressure on the outside. Checking for slow punctures would be wise, as this can cause tyres to become underinflated easily without notice, causing more damage to the outside of the tyres.

However, if this has been going on for extended periods, and the tyre safety has been affected, a tyre replacement is needed.

Tyre Age

Lastly, tyre age is the most common reason to replace them. Tyre manufacturers suggest replacing them between 6-10 years, depending on the specific brand and model.

This is because they are not eternal, and slowly over time wear down to a point when it’s time to replace your tyres. But it’s always a good idea to check them regularly to make sure nothing has happened to them and save yourself some unpleasant surprises.

Where to Get Tires Replaced?

I hear you wondering, “Okay, I need new tyres. But WHERE should I go to get them?”. NOWHERE! We come to you.

At Mobile Tyres, we offer tyre replacement at home services, and for those on the go. No matter where it is you are, we have you covered.

Have you noticed your tyres aren’t road legal or have complications? Call 0800 699 0664 or email us today to book a mobile tyre fitting at your home or work. Visit us in person at 191 Broomloan Rd, Ibrox, Glasgow, G51 2JE or use our online booking form to get a quote and secure your appointment for same-day booking. Get your new set of wheels out on the road today. Our costs are clear and include all services.