Tyres and wheels are the parts of a car that carry its weight and connect it to the road. Simple, regular checks keep them safe, extend their life, and help the car handle and brake as it should. This guide covers the routine tyre and wheel maintenance every driver can do, and when to call in a professional.
Check tyre pressures every month
Tyre pressure is the most important routine check. Check pressures monthly and before long journeys, when the tyres are cold. Use the pressure shown on the placard in the door jamb or in the owner’s manual, not the maximum pressure printed on the tyre sidewall. Under-inflated tyres wear faster, use more fuel, and can overheat, while over-inflated tyres give less grip and wear the centre of the tread.
Check tread depth and wear
The legal minimum tread depth is 2 mm in many countries, but grip falls well before that point, particularly in the wet. Use a tread depth gauge or the tread wear indicators built into the tread. Look for uneven wear across the tyre, which can point to pressure, alignment, or balance problems. Replace tyres that are worn to the limit or show damage.
Inspect for damage
Look over the tyres regularly for cuts, bulges, cracks in the sidewall, and objects stuck in the tread. A bulge on the sidewall means the internal structure is damaged, and the tyre should be replaced. Check the wheels for kerb damage, cracks, and corrosion, and check the valve stems for cracks or leaks.
Rotate and balance
Rotate the tyres at the interval recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, usually every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Rotation helps the tyres wear evenly. Balance the wheels when new tyres are fitted, and again if you notice vibration through the steering wheel or seat.
Check wheel nut torque
Check the wheel nuts or bolts after any wheel change, and again after the first short drive. Tighten them in a star pattern to the torque specified for your vehicle. Loose wheel nuts are a serious and preventable hazard.
Get wheel alignment checked
Have the wheel alignment checked if the car pulls to one side, the steering wheel is off-centre, or the tyres wear unevenly. A pothole or kerb impact can knock the alignment out, so it is worth checking after a hard hit.
When to call a professional
Some jobs are best left to a qualified tyre fitter or workshop. These include fitting new tyres, balancing, alignment, puncture repair, and any refurbishment or repair of a damaged wheel. A professional can also check the tyre age using the DOT code and tell you if a tyre has reached the end of its life.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I check my tyres? Check pressures monthly, and inspect tread and damage at least once a month and before long trips.
How often should I rotate my tyres? Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s interval, usually every 5,000 to 8,000 miles.
Do I need to check tyres in winter? Yes. Cold weather lowers tyre pressure, so check pressures more often in cold months.
Get help with tyre and wheel maintenance
For more on tyres and wheels, read our tire guides and our wheel guides. If you have a question about tyre or wheel maintenance, contact us and we will help.