⚠️5 Signs Your Tyres Need Replacing Right Now

1. Tread Depth Below 3mm

The UK legal minimum is 1.6mm, but tyre safety experts recommend replacing at 3mm. Below this, wet stopping distances increase dramatically. Use the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves. If you can see the outer band, the tyre is dangerously low and must be replaced now.

2. Cracks or Bulges in the Sidewall

A sidewall bulge indicates internal structural failure — often caused by a pothole or kerb impact. The tyre could fail at any moment. Cracks indicate rubber degradation. Both are MOT failures requiring immediate replacement.

3. Persistent Vibration or Pulling to One Side

Unusual vibration through the steering wheel or the car pulling to one side can indicate uneven tyre wear, internal damage or wheel alignment issues. Get tyres inspected before your next long journey.

4. Frequent Pressure Loss (Slow Puncture)

A tyre that keeps losing pressure has a slow puncture — a foreign object, failing valve stem or bead seal issue. Slow punctures are dangerous at speed because handling degrades gradually and unpredictably.

5. Tyres Over 5 Years Old

Rubber degrades regardless of mileage. Replace tyres after 5 years and always after 10 years, even if tread looks fine. Check the DOT code on the sidewall — the last 4 digits show manufacture week and year (e.g. 2824 = week 28 of 2024).

FixMyTyreNow supplies and fits Michelin, Continental, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Goodyear and quality budget tyres at your location. All 32 London boroughs, 24/7. Call 07895 859505.