Tyres are arguably one of the most important parts of a vehicle, with their condition affecting how a vehicle handles, drives and stops. Keeping tyres in good condition and checking them regularly can help drivers to avoid potentially dangerous situations on the roads, especially in wetter and colder weather. Below are some of our top tips for checking tyres that we encourage all business drivers to do regularly.
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Pressure
- Make sure your tyres have the correct pressure. You can find this information in the vehicle handbook and on the inside of the fuel filler cap or driver’s door sill. Having the correct pressure in your tyres will ensure even wear and will also help with handling and fuel efficiency.
Tread
- Ensure that your tyres have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm. Remember that this is a legal minimum but a newer tyre with deeper tread will perform much better in wet conditions. Use the wear indicators on the tyre itself, or a tyre tread depth gauge, to check if your tyres are safe. If you’re unsure, take them to a specialist.
Condition
- Cracks and bulges in a tyre’s sidewalls indicate damage and means the tyre should be replaced even if the tread depth is still within the legal limit. A damaged tyre can be like a ticking timebomb: it’s best to get it replaced as soon as possible.
Overloading
- Overloading your vehicle can cause excessive heat and wear on your tyres. Ensure that your vehicle’s overall weight does not exceed it’s Gross Vehicle Weight rating – found on your VIN plate. Heavy loads can also lead to poor braking and stability, so even if the weight is below the GVW rating, it’s important to adjust your driving style to match these decreases in vehicle performance.
If you’d like to remind your drivers of other key safety messages surrounding business driving you view and download our range of fleet safety posters here.
