UK tyre law requires your vehicle to be fitted with the correct size and type of tyre, for the vehicle type you are driving and for the purpose for which it is being used. The legal limit for tread depth is 1.6mm across the central ¾ of the tread around the complete circumference of the tyre.

Many vehicle manufacturers recommend tyres are changed at 3mm tread depth as below 3mm wet stopping distances are increased by 8 meters at 50 mph. The recommended point for change is accepted Europe-wide as being 3mm. So much so that ministerial cars in the UK have their tyres changed at 3mm.

Motorists should check their tyres for pressure and general condition every two weeks. Look out for cuts, lumps and bumps which could be caused by hitting the kerb, a pothole or debris in the road. This type of damage should be checked out immediately as it could lead to sudden deflation.

Tread depth, uneven wear and flat spots are also important to be aware of, these could indicate alignment, balance or brake problems so again see a specialist tyre professional as soon as possible.

Also remember tyres2u.co.uk are happy to offer free tyre safety and pressure checks, we will also produce a written report on our findings to give you piece of mind when you’re out on the road. Below are some tips on how to get the most out of your tyres. After all, the more you take care of them the more miles you'll get out of them before having to replace them!

By simply performing visual checks on your tyres on a regular basis you can make sure that you keep them in good condition. Look for any objects embedded in the tyre such as metal objects (i.e. nails, screws, etc.) and also if your tyre sidewall is cracking or shows any sign of any bulges/eggs. Remember to look after your tyres and they will look after you. Tyres2U recommend you check your tyres at least once a month for defects and any tyre pressure loss. Other things to look for would be petrol, oil and paint. Although you might not think these things would effect the performance of a tyre they could actually harmfully effect the rubber compound in the tyres. If you find any use plenty of water to wash off.

Check the tread depth on your tyres regularly to ensure they are within legal and safety limits. The minimum tread depth recommended by the major tyre companies throughout Europe is 3mm and should be at least this depth across the entire circumference of your tyres. If you are unsure about this there are various tread depth indicator devices which can be purchased from car product specialists - and most tyres already have built in tyre wear indicators. These are small raised bumps inserted into the tread as shown on the right hand side..

Always ensure your tyres conform to the UK minimum legal tread depth requirements of 1.6 mm. The penalties for having illegal tyres are currently up to a £2500 fine and 3 penalty points per tyre!

This means your tyres should have at least 1.6 mm of tread left across the central three quarters of the tread breadth and around the entire circumference of the tyre. Most tyre and car manufacturers recommend you replace your tyres at 3 mm as the stopping distance can almost double.

The correct tyre pressure on your car is important to how the vehicle runs and can affect handling, as well as the actual lifespan of a tyre. Ideally this should be checked at least every two weeks, and before any long trips.

You will find the correct tyre size information and pressure values in your cars handbook.