Tyre Fitter Tips & News

Tyres are one of the most common reasons for MOT failure. The examiner checks tread depth, tyre condition, correct sizing, and that the same type of tyre is fitted on each axle. This guide explains exactly what they look for, so you can check your own tyres before the test and avoid a failure.

Locking wheel nut keys go missing more often than you would think — left in the glovebox of a traded-in car, lost during a service, or simply misplaced. This guide explains your options for removal, how much it costs, and how to order a replacement key from your vehicle manufacturer.

Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption by up to 3 percent, reduce braking performance, and wear unevenly. Over-inflated tyres reduce grip and wear the centre of the tread. This guide shows you where to find the correct pressures for your car, how to check them accurately, and how often you should do it.

Tread depth is not the only indicator. Cracking in the sidewall, bulges, vibration at speed, uneven wear patterns, and tyre age can all mean it is time for a replacement even if the tread looks adequate. This guide covers the five signs that should prompt a visit to your tyre fitter.

Mobile tyre fitting has grown rapidly in the UK because it saves time and eliminates the need to drive on a damaged tyre. We explain how the service works, what equipment the fitter brings, typical costs compared to a garage, and when mobile fitting is not suitable.

The numbers on your tyre sidewall tell you everything about its size, load capacity, and maximum speed — but most drivers have no idea how to read them. This plain-English guide decodes tyre size markings, load indices, speed ratings, and the DOT manufacturing date code.

Knowing how to change a tyre is a skill every driver should have, but doing it incorrectly can be dangerous. This guide covers finding a safe location, using the jack correctly, the right order for loosening and tightening wheel nuts, and the critical step most people forget — torquing the nuts after driving.

Your Tyre Pressure Monitoring System warning light could mean a slow puncture, a sudden pressure drop, or simply that your tyres are cold. This guide explains the difference between direct and indirect TPMS, how to reset the light, and when you need a professional to look at it.

Part-worn tyres can seem like a bargain, but investigations have found that a significant proportion are sold illegally with hidden damage, improper repairs, or tread depths barely above the legal minimum. We explain the regulations and why new budget tyres are almost always the smarter choice.

Winter tyres are not just for snow — they outperform summer tyres on any cold, wet road below 7 degrees Celsius. We look at the real-world braking differences, the cost of buying a second set, and whether all-season tyres are a better compromise for UK drivers.

Run-flat tyres let you drive up to 50 miles at 30mph after a puncture, but they cost more and give a firmer ride. This guide covers how they work, whether you can switch to standard tyres, and what to do if your run-flat gets a puncture.

The 20p test is a quick way to check your tread depth — place a 20p coin in the main grooves, and if the outer band is visible, your tread is below 3mm and it is time to book a replacement. This guide explains how to check properly and why 3mm is the recommended minimum even though the legal limit is 1.6mm.