How to check your tyre’s tread
Tyres might seem like an unassuming part of your vehicle, but proper tyre care and maintenance are vital for safety and performanceMany accidents and close calls can be traced back to neglected tyres—whether due to incorrect pressures, excessive wear, or degraded compounds. Ignoring tyre health can not only jeopardize your safety but also lead to costly repairs down the line.
Regularly checking your tyre tread is a simple yet effective way to ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance. Here’s how you can do it properly.
Step 1: Locate the tread wear indicators
Modern tyres come equipped with tread wear indicators—raised bits of rubber located in the main grooves of the tyre’s tread. These indicators help you gauge how much tread remains on your tyres.
- To find them, feel along the channels of the tread until you come across the raised sections.
- If the indicators aren’t immediately visible, you may need to roll the car forward slightly. Always ensure the car is turned off, the handbrake is applied, and the vehicle is secure before inspecting.
Step 2: Measure the wear
Once you’ve located the tread wear indicators, measure the distance between the top of the tread and the indicators. This will tell you how much life your tyres have left:
- The smaller the step between the tread and the wear indicator, the more worn the tyre is.
- If the tread is flush with the wear indicators, it’s time to replace the tyre.
Step 3: Inspect all tyres inside and out
Tyres rarely wear perfectly evenly. Factors such as improper wheel alignment or incorrect tyre pressures can cause uneven wear patterns.
- Check every tyre on your vehicle, paying attention to both the inside and outside edges. This is especially important for the front tyres, which are more prone to uneven wear.
- To make inspecting the inner edges easier, turn the front wheels outward while the car is stationary.
Step 4: Look for other signs of wear
Examine the tread for any signs of excessive or uneven wear, which can indicate specific issues:
- Underinflation: Extra wear on the outer edges of the tyre.
- Overinflation: Excessive wear in the centre of the tread.
Be cautious while inspecting, as exposed canvas fibres or other damage can cause injury.
Final tips for tyre maintenance
- Keep your tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure range.
- Rotate your tyres regularly to ensure even wear.
- Stay on top of wheel alignment checks.
By following these steps, you can ensure your tyres remain safe and perform at their best.
Related: How to change a tyre
Related: What should my tyre pressure be and how often should I check it?
Related: What should I do if I get a flat tyre?
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