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When to replace your tyres

Replacing your tyres

All tyres wear out or become damaged and will eventually need replacing.

How quickly that happens depends on various things, like your driving habits, where you live and how well you maintain your tyres.

When should I buy new tyres?

You should inspect your tyres regularly – at least once a month. Check the below to see if your tyres need replacing:

  • Tread wear bars: most tyres have tread wear bars - bands of hard rubber that you can only see when your tread depth has gone beyond the limit for safe driving, which is generally 1.6mm.
  • Uneven wear patterns: you should also check your treads for uneven wear patterns that can indicate other problems with your tyres or your vehicle.
  • There’s a bulge or a blister on the sidewall of a tyre.These can lead to tyre failure and could be dangerous.
  • A tyre has gone flat due to a blow out.
  • A tyre has lacerations or other significant damage.
  • You have sidewall or tread punctures larger than 0.64cm. You cannot repair any punctures larger than that and you should never repair tyres worn below 1.6mm.

Tips for buying replacement tyres

  • Replace all four at once

It’s a good idea to replace all four tyres at once. For optimum handling and control we recommend they are all the same type and size, unless otherwise specified by the vehicle manufacturer.

  • Make sure they match

If you’re only buying two, make sure the new ones match the tyres you’re keeping, and that this is permitted by your local laws and by the vehicle manufacturer.

  • Put new tyres on the rear axle

For better traction and stability when you drive, if you are only buying two new tyres put them on the rear wheels.

  • Radials and non-radials

If both must be fitted to the same vehicle, put the radials on the rear axle.

  • Never mix

Radials and non-radials on the same axle.

  • Different speed ratings

It’s not recommended to fit tyres with different speed ratings. However, if they are fitted with different speed ratings they should be installed with like pairs on the same axle.

  • Load-carrying capacity

Make sure replacement tyres have an equal or greater load-carrying capacity to what the original equipment manufacturer specifies.

What happens to my old tyres?

90% of old tyres (also termed ‘end-of life’ tyres) are recycled for energy recovery in the U.S., Europe, and Japan.  

Warning

Before you replace your tyres, always consult the vehicle owner's manual and follow the vehicle manufacturer's replacement tyre recommendations. Vehicle handling may be significantly affected by a change in tyre size or type. 

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