There are a lot of things you can do to keep your tyres in top condition and as safe as possible, as you’ll see below.
Don’t let your tyre tread get too worn
Worn tyres affect your vehicle's handling, making it hard to gauge how it will react when you’re driving. And on a wet road they could increase your braking distance by up to 70%.
8 mm tread depth = 140 feet braking distance*
3 mm tread depth = 173 feet braking distance*
Less than 1.6 mm tread depth = 240 feet braking distance*
* From a speed of 50 miles per hour down to 0 mile per hour.
As well as being dangerous, you’re breaking the law if you drive with a tread depth of 1.6mm or less on three quarters of the tyre width (or more). It’s another reason you should regularly check your tyres.
If you prefer, ask your nearest Gordons Rapid Fit to check them – it’s free of charge.
Keep tyre pressure at the right level
If your tyres are over or under-inflated, it affects their contact with the road.They’ll also wear out more quickly and may increase your vehicle’s fuel consumption.
So to save money and protect yourself and your passengers, it’s very important that you check your tyre pressure regularly.
To find out how much air pressure your tyres need, check in your owner’s manual. It can vary depending on load, speed and type of tyres, so if you're not sure, just ask us.
Checking the air pressure
Take a few moments to check your tyres’ air pressure regularly, and at least every month if you’re a high mileage driver. Never wait for it to get too low.
Make sure your tyres are cold before checking, as measurements aren't accurate after long journeys at high speed. Tighten the valve cap securely and replace lost caps immediately, otherwise the valves may begin to leak air. You should also regularly check rubber valves and valve seats for damage.
Always fill your spare tyre with 0.1 – 0.3 bar extra air. However, pressure should never exceed the maximum level for driving with a full load. You’ll find the figure for the maximum level in your owner’s manual.
 | Find out how checking and adjusting your tyre pressures regularly can help to reduce your CO2 emissions and fuel costs. 
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Repair tyre damage asap
You can easily damage your tyres by driving up on to the curb, for example. This can lead to loss of air or corrosion in the tyre belt. Tread flaking can also occur and is very dangerous, especially when driving at high speed.
This is why you should check your tyres for damage regularly or bring your car to us for a Free Tyre Check. Suspect signs are cracks, buckling, or pieces of tread sticking out. And, of course, look out for foreign bodies such as nails.
Uneven tread wear can be an indication of interior damage, so if you notice any, ask one of our technicians to take a look. The problem often lies in the chassis or steering, but brakes or an out of balance wheel can also be the cause.
If you suspect this kind of problem, bring your car straight to us. If you don't identify and deal with it straight away, new tyres will also become damaged.
Don’t overload your tyres
Your car has been built to take a certain amount of weight -you’ll find the maximum in your owner’s manual.
If you overload your car, you can affect its performance. If you stack your roof rack too highly, for example, your car will be more exposed to side winds and it can also put extra strain on your brakes.
But it will be your tyres that will bear the brunt if your car is overloaded, which can result in them wearing out faster and becoming dangerous. It’s much safer to stay within the stated weight limit.
