How’s My Driving? - Safe Driving Blog Tips
Valentine’s Day isn’t just about chocolates, flowers, and fancy dinners – it’s a time to show love and care to the ones who matter most. While we often think of love in terms of people, this year, it’s time to extend that love to something that quietly protects your loved ones every day: your tyres. Yes, tyres!
Your tyres are the unsung heroes of your car, connecting you to the road, ensuring your journeys are smooth and safe, and ultimately helping to safeguard the people you care about. By giving your tyres the attention they deserve this Valentine’s Day, you’re not only ensuring your own safety but also showing love to the passengers who trust you on every journey.
TyreSafe says that over 6 million tires in the UK have illegal tread each year, which can lead to fines and penalty points. It also states that 1 in 5 vehicle breakdowns on motorways and A roads are caused by tire defects. So, here are some top tips for loving your tyres this Valentine’s Day and why it’s more important than ever...
Protecting what matters most
Your tyres are the first point of contact between your car and the road, and yet, they’re often the most neglected aspect of vehicle maintenance. According to UK road safety data, defective tyres contribute to hundreds of accidents every year, with many of these being avoidable through proper care and attention.
When you neglect your tyres, you’re not just putting yourself at risk – you’re endangering your passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. Taking a little time to love your tyres can mean the difference between a safe journey and a serious accident.
So, how do you show your tyres the love they deserve this Valentine’s Day? Here are some practical and easy-to-follow tips to keep your tyres in tip-top condition.
- Check the pressure: Just like checking in on loved ones to make sure they’re doing okay, checking your tyre pressure should be a regular part of your routine. Driving with under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can compromise your vehicle’s handling, fuel efficiency, and safety.
Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. Most vehicles will have a recommended tyre pressure listed in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
- Get deep: The tread on your tyres is what helps maintain grip on the road, especially in wet or icy conditions. Worn-down tyres are a major hazard, increasing the risk of skidding and accidents.
In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, experts recommend replacing tyres once the tread reaches 3mm for optimal safety. You can use a 20p coin as a simple way to check your tread depth: insert the coin into the tread, and if the outer band is visible, it’s time to replace your tyres.
- Keep an eye on wear and tear: Uneven wear on your tyres can indicate alignment or suspension issues that need addressing. Walk around your car and visually inspect each tyre for any signs of damage, bulges, or bald patches. If you notice anything unusual, take your car to a professional for an assessment.
Remember, ignoring these signs could lead to a blowout (and not the nice kind for your hair!).
- Keep rotating: Did you know that the tyres on the front of your car wear out faster than those on the rear? Rotating your tyres ensures even wear, extending their lifespan and maintaining optimal performance.
Ask your mechanic to rotate your tyres during regular servicing or do it yourself if you’re confident with tools. Typically, tyre rotation should be done every 5,000 to 7,500 miles.
- Avoid overloading: Overloading your car is like overburdening your loved ones – it’s unfair and can cause unnecessary stress. Carrying too much weight puts extra pressure on your tyres, leading to faster wear and increased risk of failure.
Stick to your vehicle’s recommended load capacity where you can.
- Invest in seasonal tyres: If you really want to go above and beyond for your tyres (and your safety), consider switching to seasonal tyres. Winter tyres offer better grip in cold, wet, and icy conditions, while summer tyres are designed for optimal performance in warmer weather.
While it may seem like an added expense, having the right tyres for the season can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and improve your driving experience.
- Keep clean: A clean car is a happy car, and the same goes for your tyres. Dirt, debris, and road grime can build up on your tyres over time, potentially causing damage. Give your tyres a good scrub when you wash your car, and make sure to remove any stones or debris lodged in the treads.
This Valentine’s Day, let’s commit to showing love not just to our partners, friends, and family but also to the vehicles and tyres that keep us safe every day. By taking care of your tyres, you’re ensuring that every journey is as safe as it can be – for you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.
And remember, when it comes to road safety, love is a team effort. At How’s My Driving?, we’re here to support you every step of the way, with tools and services designed to make driving safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
So, this Valentine’s Day, don’t just think of love as a fleeting feeling – think of it as a commitment to care. Love your tyres, love your car, and most importantly, love the people who rely on you to get them home safely.
14 February 2025