Tyre safety checks to do before your bank holiday road trip

With the summer holidays in full swing and the August bank holiday approaching, many people are preparing for their summer road trips to make the most of the sunshine. Whether you’re planning a tour of the UK or a quick weekend escape to the beach, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy first. We’ve put together some simple checks you can do now, and while on the road, to minimise the stress during your holiday.

​​Check your tyre pressures

Tyre pressure is a crucial part of your vehicle’s safety and can even impact fuel economy and tyre longevity. Incorrect pressures pose a risk which can be heightened by a summer road trip due to the heat, heavier loads and more mileage. While we recommend you check your tyre pressures monthly, it’s especially important before a summer road trip as low tyre pressure may lead to a puncture, putting you and your passengers at risk.

But how do I check my tyre pressures?

Your optimal pressures can be accessed in your vehicle handbook or on the inside of the door. Remember that your optimal tyre pressure will vary depending on the weight of your vehicle, so consider if you’re carrying multiple passengers and luggage, as you might need to increase the PSI if your vehicle is fully loaded. While we suggest having your own PSI gauge or tyre inflator, many petrol stations will offer free facilities for tyre inflation.

Avoid overloading your vehicle!

Avoid exceeding your vehicle’s weight capacity, as this could damage your car and is even considered dangerous driving in the UK, possibly landing you with a fine and even a risk of prison time. You can find your car’s specific weight limit detailed in the handbook or on a designated plate in the passenger door, as it varies by vehicle type.
Tread depth safety checks

Routine checks are recommended to monitor your tread depth, as it can decrease faster than you may expect. Driving with a tread below the legal minimum of 1.6mm not only increases the risk of punctures and damage to your vehicle, but may also come with a significant fine of £2,500 per tyre and up to 12 points on your licence.

The 20p Test

Checking your tyre tread is one of the simplest and most crucial tasks for any driver. For drivers in the UK, a straightforward method is to simply insert a 20p coin into the main grooves of the tyre. If the coin’s outer band is obscured, the tyre likely meets the legal tread depth. However, if the outer band is visible, the tread is probably below the minimum tread depth and should be replaced or checked by an expert immediately.

Though for more precise measurements, we recommend using a tread depth gauge, which should offer you a more accurate reading. Keeping it in your car makes it accessible to conduct monthly checks.

Wheel alignment

Wheel alignment is a common cause of uneven tyre wear, so we recommend getting it checked before a long road trip. Over time, poor alignment can cause steering problems, reduced fuel efficiency, and premature tyre wear.

If you have any developing issues, such as your car pulling to one side, or signs of uneven wear on your tyres, among many others, this could be an indication of your wheel alignment being off.

Fixing your alignment is a fairly quick process, so to avoid further damage, we recommend you get it checked out by an expert as soon as possible.

Be equipped for tyre repair

Even with thorough checks, punctures or damage from potholes can still happen. Therefore, it’s important to be prepared with the right roadside equipment.

Some older vehicles come with a spare tyre, which should be checked regularly to ensure proper inflation and good condition. You should look for any signs of cracking or rubber separation. Cars with spare tyres will also include a small portable car jack and tyre wrench for removing your damaged tyres.

What if my vehicle does not have a spare tyre?

For vehicles without a spare, a tyre repair kit may be provided with your vehicle. This is a temporary seal which, when paired with an air compressor, can allow you to inflate your tyre long enough to reach your nearest garage safely. If you do not have a kit, we recommend picking one up online, as they could get you out of a dangerous situation quickly.

Finally, as a proactive measure, it’s highly recommended to purchase roadside assistance, especially before embarking on long journeys. This serves as a crucial safety net, providing prompt assistance for tyre-related problems or engine issues, helping you get back on the road quickly.

For more information on finding the right tyres for your summer plans and driving style, or to schedule a professional check of your current tyres, contact your local Envoy dealer.