The Complete Tyre Safety Checklist Every UK Driver Should Follow Monthly

Q: Monthly Tyre Check: Your 5-Minute Routine

1. Tyre Pressure (2 minutes) — Check all four tyres with a gauge when cold. Compare against manufacturer specification. Don't forget the spare if you have one. Re-inflate or let down as needed. 2. Tread Depth (1 minute) — Use the 20p test or a depth gauge. Check multiple points across each tyre. If

Q: Visual Inspection Checklist

3. Sidewall Condition — Look for cracks, cuts, bulges, or blisters on both inner and outer sidewalls. Any bulge means immediate replacement — this is a potential blowout. 4. Tread Area — Look for embedded objects (nails, screws, glass), unusual wear patterns, cuts, or exposed cord. 5. Valve Caps — E

Q: Quarterly Checks (Add to Your Calendar)

Wheel alignment — If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel isn't straight on a level road, get alignment checked. Misalignment destroys tyres quickly. Wheel balancing — If you feel vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, get a balance check. Age check — Tyres over 5 years

A simple 5-minute monthly check could save your life. Print this out, stick it on your fridge, and never drive on unsafe tyres again.

Monthly Tyre Check: Your 5-Minute Routine

1. Tyre Pressure (2 minutes) — Check all four tyres with a gauge when cold. Compare against manufacturer specification. Don't forget the spare if you have one. Re-inflate or let down as needed. 2. Tread Depth (1 minute) — Use the 20p test or a depth gauge. Check multiple points across each tyre. If any point is below 2mm, book a replacement immediately. Below 1.6mm is illegal.

Visual Inspection Checklist

3. Sidewall Condition — Look for cracks, cuts, bulges, or blisters on both inner and outer sidewalls. Any bulge means immediate replacement — this is a potential blowout. 4. Tread Area — Look for embedded objects (nails, screws, glass), unusual wear patterns, cuts, or exposed cord. 5. Valve Caps — Ensure all four valve caps are present and tight. Missing caps allow water and dirt into the valve, causing slow leaks.

Quarterly Checks (Add to Your Calendar)

Wheel alignment — If your car pulls to one side or the steering wheel isn't straight on a level road, get alignment checked. Misalignment destroys tyres quickly. Wheel balancing — If you feel vibration through the steering wheel at motorway speeds, get a balance check. Age check — Tyres over 5 years old (check the DOT date code on the sidewall — 4-digit code shows week and year of manufacture) should be inspected by a professional annually.

Failed Your Own Inspection?

Don't delay. Leeds Tyre Guys cover all Leeds and West Yorkshire postcodes — call 0113 234 5678 for same-day service.