Why tyres are the most common cause of winter breakdowns

In a recent study, National Highways has revealed that tyres have been the most common cause of breakdowns during the winter season for the past three years. 

It’s crucial to take good care of your tyres throughout the year, but particularly in winter, as the roads are naturally more hazardous, and shorter days can make driving conditions more challenging.

So what are the most common tyre faults that can cause breakdowns, and what can be done to avoid them?

Common tyre failures

Punctured tyres
It’s unfortunate if you experience a puncture through everyday driving, such as running over a nail or piece of glass in the road, as these instances can simply be bad luck. 

It’s not always immediately obvious if something has punctured the tread, depending on where it enters the tyre, so you could be driving around with an obstruction for some time before it flags up on your dashboard. This is why regular tyre checks are an important part of vehicle maintenance. While some punctures can be repaired, many require a full tyre replacement, so if you spot something, make sure you get a professional opinion as soon as possible.

Insufficient tread depth
A lot of drivers may be surprised to know that the legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm. Even driving at the legal limit is a risk in wintry conditions, as grip is compromised. Anything below this level puts you and your passengers in potential danger, and could result in a fine of £2,500 or more, as well as multiple points on your licence. 

Underinflated or overinflated tyres
Incorrectly inflated tyres can lead to a breakdown – overinflated tyres have reduced contact with the road, and underinflated tyres don’t have as much traction, which can cause excess heat build-up, eventually leading to a breakdown of your tyres.

How can you avoid these tyre problems?

As mentioned, instances such as punctures can just be a case of bad luck, however most tyre issues can be avoided with the right care and attention, saving time, money and stress. 

Here are some essential checks you can do to keep your tyres in good health:

Regular pressure checks
Some drivers may rely on their TPMS sensor to alert them to a tyre issue, however manual checks shouldn’t be underestimated, as spotting any signs of a fault or premature wear early could save you in the long run. It’s important to check pressures when the tyres are cold, to avoid incorrect inflation; heat build up through driving can cause the tyre to temporarily expand, giving a false reading.

Tread depth and damage inspection
Regularly checking your tread depth helps you keep on top of how your tyres are wearing and gives you an opportunity to inspect them for any signs of damage. Look for cuts, bulges, cracks, or any embedded objects. Even minor damage can compromise the structure of your tyres, creating a risk of a sudden blowout.

Your tyres are the only connection your vehicle has with the road, so paying regular attention to them can make you feel more confident on the roads and help your vehicle run more efficiently.

If you discover a tyre that needs replacing, the Davanti range has a wide selection of products that cater to all driving needs. Browse our range or contact your local Davanti dealer for more information.