Selecting the right size tyres for your car is crucial for safety, performance, and to keep you safe in the winter months. When there are snowy conditions or icy road surfaces, having a set of grippy tyres is crucial, and it is always good to keep an eye on tyre tread anyway to avoid any issues with the law!
Here we explore how you can find a set that is the perfect fit for your make and model.
3 Ways to Check What Tyre Size You Need
Check the Owner’s Manual: The most reliable source to find out what size tyres you need for your car is your owner’s manual. It will have all the details about the recommended tyre size, pressure, and other important information.
Check the Current Tyres: The size of your current tyres is more than likely imprinted on the sidewall. You can find a series of numbers and letters that indicate the tyre size. The format is something like this: “215/60R16” – “215” is the width in millimetres, “60” is the aspect ratio (the height of the tyre’s cross-section as a percentage of the width), and “R16” indicates the tyre is for a 16-inch rim.
Consult a Professional: Still not sure? It’s a good idea to consult with your local tyre professional or your vehicle’s dealership.
Signs of When To Change Your Car Tyres
A quick inspection of your tyres can give you some indication that it might be time to swap them for a new set.
Tyre Tread Depth
Tread depth is crucial for grip and traction which is especially important during the winter months. When tyres wear down, they become less effective at channelling water away and the traction diminishes. The legal minimum tread depth for the UK is 1.6mm, but it is recommended to change tyres before you get to this point.
- Pro Tip: Carry out the 20p test! A simple, quick and easy way of checking the tyre tread is to take a 20p coin and insert it into the tread grooves on the tyre. If you can’t see the outer band on the 20p piece, your tyres are above the legal limit.
Visible Tyre Damage
Checking your tyres regularly can help you spot any cuts, bulges, or other signs of damage. If you notice any, we recommend looking to replace the tyre ASAP. Damage can occur due to a number of reasons including potholes, sharp objects, or if you clip the kerb and this in turn can cause damage to the tyre structure.
Uneven Tyre Wear
Under inflation can lead to uneven wear patterns as can alignment or suspension issues. If you notice excessive wear on one side of the tyre or in the centre, it’s time to speak to your local garage to address the underlying problem and replace the tyres if necessary.
Tyre Inflation Levels Matter
Beyond getting the right size tyres and checking for damage, the main thing you can do to look after your current tyres is to ensure they are correctly inflated. Proper inflation is not just about fuel efficiency; it’s crucial for winter driving. Underinflated tyres reduce traction, while overinflated tyres can be prone to damage on icy surfaces. Be sure to check and maintain the recommended pressure levels.
You can generally find the tyre pressure in the car manual or quite often on modern cars, on the interior of the car fuel flap.
The Role of Tyre Pressure
Lower temperatures can lead to pressure drops, affecting performance and safety. Regularly monitor and adjust your tyre pressure to ensure optimal driving conditions.
Winter Tyre Health Check Checklist
- Visual Inspection: Examine each tyre for visible tyre wear, damage, cuts, or bulges.
- Tread Depth Check: Ensure the remaining tread depth is over 1.6mm.
- Inflation Test: Check that each tyre is inflated to the recommended pressure.
Tyre FAQs
Q: How often should I check my tires during winter?
Regular checks are advisable, ideally once a month, to ensure your tyres are in optimal condition for winter driving.
Q: Can I use all-season tyres in winter?
All-season tyres provide decent performance, especially for the UK climate. If you live in a colder or hilly area, investing in dedicated winter tyres will provide you with superior traction in icy conditions.
