Tyre Safety Month at John Clark

Don't ignore your tyres. Check them once a month.

October is Tyre Safety Month, Winter is on it's way once again so now is the time to make sure your tyres are ready for the upcoming cold weather.

At John Clark Motor Group, we want to ensure your tyres are safe and road worthy.


The Importance of Tyre Safety

Well-maintained tyres provide better traction, reducing the risk of accidents, especially in adverse weather conditions. Adequate tread depth and proper inflation ensure your vehicle maintains contact with the road, preventing skidding and loss of control. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption. By maintaining proper tyre pressure, you can improve fuel efficiency and save money. Regular tyre care, including checking pressure, inspecting for damage, and rotating tyres, helps extend their lifespan, saving you money in the long run.

overlooking your tyres it doesn’t just cost you money, it can cost lives too:

  • In 2024 172 people were killed or seriously injured in incidents involving defective tyres
  • 75% of tyre defects identified in fatal accidents were due to poor tyre maintenance
  • Over 51,000 tyre-related breakdowns were reported on major UK roads and motorways in 2023




Essential Tyre Safety Tips

To ensure your tyres are safe and performing optimally, regularly check their tread depth, which should be at least 3mm. Use a tread depth gauge to measure this. Maintain proper tyre pressure, as recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual, to prevent safety and fuel efficiency issues.

Regularly inspect your tyres for damage like cuts, bulges, or punctures, as these can lead to blowouts. Consider rotating your tyres according to your vehicle's service manual to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.

Tread Depth, Wet Conditions & Aquaplaning

Tyre treads help clear water from the road, maintaining grip in wet conditions. As tread wears or water depth increases, the risk of aquaplaning rises, causing a loss of control when steering, braking, or accelerating. Wet weather also means longer stopping distances, so always slow down in rain and check your tread depth regularly, ideally once a month.



The 20p Test

A quick and easy way to see if your tyre tread exceed the minimum legal tread depth is to take the 20p test.

Simply place a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the 20p coin is obscured when it is inserted, then your tread is above the legal limit.

If the outer band of the coin is visible, then your tyres may be illegal and unsafe and should be checked immediately by a qualified tyre professional.

When taking the test, remember to check at least three locations around each tyre. As the test is so quick and easy, stay safe by checking your tyres at least once a month.


​​

Winter Tyres: A Must-Have for Cold Weather Driving

Winter tyres are specifically designed to provide superior traction and control in cold weather conditions, making them an essential investment for drivers in regions that experience snow and ice. Unlike all-season tyres, winter tyres are equipped with deeper tread depths and more sipes and grooves, which enhance grip on slippery surfaces. This improved traction is crucial for maintaining control and reducing the risk of accidents during winter months.

One of the key features of winter tyres is their softer rubber compound, which remains flexible even in frigid temperatures. This flexibility ensures that the tyres maintain contact with the road surface, providing better traction and handling. In contrast, all-season tyres can become hard and brittle in cold weather, compromising their performance.

Common Winter Tyre Myths Debunked

"All-season tyres are the same as winter tyres."

Winter tyres are specifically designed for cold weather conditions and offer superior traction on snow and ice.

"I can just fit two winter tyres to the driven axle and save money."

It's recommended to fit winter tyres to all four wheels for optimal safety and performance.

"Premium winter tyres are just a marketing ploy for tyre companies to make more money."

Premium winter tyres offer superior performance, safety, and longevity, making their higher cost worthwhile.


Contact Us

Drive with confidence this winter. Our expert technicians will ensure your tires are ready for any weather.