When to Replace Tyres (UK) — Signs of Wear, Age & Damage

Knowing when to replace your tyres is important for:
✅ safety
✅ braking
✅ wet grip
✅ avoiding MOT issues

This guide explains the most common signs your tyres should be replaced.

1) Tread Depth Is Low

The UK legal minimum tread depth is:

✅ 1.6mm

Across the central ¾ of the tyre around the full circumference.

However, for safer wet driving, many people replace tyres earlier.

Recommended for safety:

  • ✅ Replace around 3.0mm for better wet grip

  • ❄️ Winter tyres perform best above 4.0mm

💡 Tip: If you do lots of motorway driving or carry heavy loads, replacing earlier can be a smart move.

2) Cracks in the Sidewall (Ageing)

Even if tread looks fine, tyres can age and crack.

Look for:

  • small cracks on the sidewall

  • cracking between tread blocks

  • “dry rot” appearance

⚠️ Cracks can lead to a sudden failure, especially at speed.

3) Bulges or Blisters

If you see a bulge in the sidewall, replace the tyre immediately.

A bulge usually means internal damage (often caused by potholes or kerb impacts).

⚠️ This can lead to a blowout.

4) Cuts, Splits or Exposed Cords

Replace the tyre if you notice:

  • deep cuts

  • splits

  • any cords showing through the rubber

Even small damage can worsen quickly.

5) Uneven Tyre Wear

If your tyres are wearing unevenly, it’s usually caused by:

  • incorrect tyre pressure

  • wheel alignment issues

  • suspension wear

Common patterns:

Wear on both outer edges

Usually underinflation or hard cornering.

Wear in the centre

Usually overinflation.

Wear on inside edge only

Often wheel alignment.

⚠️ If wear is uneven, it’s best to fix the cause or your new tyres will wear out fast too.

6) Vibration While Driving

If you feel vibration through:

  • steering wheel

  • seat

  • car body

It may be caused by:

  • tyre damage

  • wheel balancing issues

  • uneven wear

A damaged tyre can be dangerous — get it checked.

7) Frequent Loss of Pressure (Slow Puncture)

If you keep topping up the same tyre, it could be:

  • a slow puncture

  • a leaking valve

  • a damaged bead seal

  • a small nail or screw

If it won’t hold pressure properly, it’s time to repair or replace.

8) Your Tyres Are Old (Even With Good Tread)

Tyres can become unsafe with age even if tread depth looks good.

Most tyres should be checked closely once they reach:

✅ 5 years old
and many drivers replace around:
✅ 6–10 years old (depending on condition)

If you’re unsure, we can help you check the tyre condition.

How Do I Check the Age of a Tyre? (DOT Code)

Many tyres have a DOT code on the sidewall.

Example: DOT 1221

This means:

  • 12 = week 12

  • 21 = year 2021

So it was made in week 12 of 2021.

Replace Tyres in Pairs (Best Practice)

For safer handling and braking, it’s recommended to replace tyres in pairs:

✅ 2 tyres on the same axle
or
✅ all 4 tyres for best balance

This helps:

  • stability in corners

  • braking performance

  • traction in wet weather

Quick Safety Checklist

Replace your tyres if you notice:

✅ tread near 2–3mm
✅ cracking or ageing
✅ bulges or sidewall damage
✅ cords showing
✅ uneven wear
✅ constant pressure loss
✅ vibration while driving

Need New Tyres?

If your tyres are worn or damaged, it’s best to replace early for safety.

Shop online:

  • Car Tyres: /collections/car-tyres

  • Van Tyres: /collections/van-tyres

  • 4×4 / SUV Tyres: /collections/4x4-tyres

If you need help choosing the correct size, contact us and we’ll help.