Can I get tyres fitted at my home or workplace in Bicester? +
Absolutely. Mobile tyre fitting is one of the most popular services in Bicester. A fully equipped van comes to your home, workplace, or any safe location with the tyres you need. The fitter brings a hydraulic jack, wheel balancer, torque wrench, and all necessary equipment. Most jobs are completed in 20 to 30 minutes per tyre without you needing to leave the building.
Are part-worn tyres safe to buy? +
Part-worn tyres carry significant risks. While they are legal to sell in the UK, studies have found that a large proportion fail to meet legal standards — many have been previously repaired improperly, have internal damage not visible from the outside, or are close to the legal tread limit. The small saving is rarely worth the risk. New budget tyres from reputable brands often cost only £15–£25 more and come with a full warranty.
How long does it take to fit a new tyre? +
A single tyre change typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, including removing the old tyre, fitting and balancing the new one, and torquing the wheel nuts to the correct specification. If you are having all four tyres replaced, expect the job to take around 45 minutes to an hour. Mobile fitters work to the same timescales as a garage.
How do I read my tyre size? +
Your tyre size is printed on the sidewall in a format like 205/55R16 91V. The first number (205) is the width in millimetres, the second (55) is the aspect ratio as a percentage of the width, R means radial construction, and 16 is the wheel diameter in inches. The number after (91) is the load index and the letter (V) is the speed rating. Your vehicle handbook and the sticker inside the driver's door frame show the correct size for your car.
What does the TPMS warning light mean? +
The TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) warning light indicates that one or more of your tyres has dropped below the recommended pressure. This could be caused by a slow puncture, a change in temperature, or simply natural air loss over time. Do not ignore it — under-inflated tyres increase braking distances and can overheat at speed. Check your pressures at the nearest petrol station or call a mobile tyre fitter.
What is the legal minimum tyre tread depth in the UK? +
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. However, most motoring organisations recommend replacing tyres at 3mm, as braking performance drops significantly below this level. Driving on tyres below 1.6mm carries a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points per illegal tyre — so four bald tyres could mean a £10,000 fine and 12 points.