Top Tyre Maintenance Mistakes Drivers Make

Introduction

Tyres are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, yet many drivers underestimate the importance of proper tyre maintenance. Ignoring tyre health not only compromises safety but also affects fuel efficiency, vehicle performance, and long-term costs. In this blog, we’ll highlight the most common tyre maintenance mistakes drivers make, how to avoid them, and when it’s time to visit a trusted tyre shop or tyre fitting centre for expert help.

Mistake 1: Ignoring Tyre Pressure

Driving with incorrect tyre pressure is one of the most frequent and dangerous oversights. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy and causing premature wear. Over-inflated tyres reduce grip, making your vehicle less stable—especially in wet conditions.

Quick Tip: Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before long journeys. Most tyre fitting centres offer a free pressure check service.

Mistake 2: Skipping Regular Inspections

Many drivers assume that if their tyres look okay, they are okay. But visual checks aren’t always enough. Embedded objects, sidewall cracks, or uneven wear can go unnoticed and lead to sudden failures.

Quick Tip: Get your tyres professionally inspected every few months at a local tyre shop. They can detect hidden damage and recommend timely replacements or repairs.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Wheel Alignment

Incorrect wheel alignment causes uneven tyre wear, which shortens tyre life and impacts steering control. Many people don’t realise alignment issues until the damage is already done.

Quick Tip: If your vehicle pulls to one side or the steering feels off-centre, visit a tyre fitting centre immediately for an alignment check. It’s a quick fix that saves money in the long run.

Mistake 4: Delaying Tyre Replacement

It’s easy to put off replacing worn tyres, but the consequences can be severe—especially during rain or winter driving. Tyres with low tread depth lose grip and increase braking distances.

Quick Tip: Use the 20p test to check your tread depth. If the outer rim of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread, it’s time to replace your tyres. Your local tyre shop can guide you on the best options based on your vehicle and driving habits.

Mistake 5: Mixing Tyre Types

Some drivers unknowingly mix different tyre brands, sizes, or tread patterns, especially when replacing one or two tyres. This can lead to handling issues and uneven wear.

Quick Tip: Always consult a professional before fitting new tyres. A reliable tyre fitting centre will ensure all tyres are compatible and suited to your driving needs.

Mistake 6: Forgetting Tyre Rotation

Rotating your tyres helps them wear evenly, extending their lifespan. Front and rear tyres wear differently, especially in front-wheel drive vehicles.

Quick Tip: Rotate your tyres every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Most tyre shops offer this as part of their routine servicing.

Mistake 7: Driving on Spare Tyres Too Long

Space-saver spare tyres are designed for temporary use only. Driving on them for extended periods can be dangerous and may damage your vehicle's suspension.

Quick Tip: Visit a tyre fitting centre as soon as possible to replace your spare with a proper tyre. Avoid high speeds and long-distance driving on temporary spares.

Mistake 8: Overlooking Seasonal Tyre Changes

Many UK drivers stick with the same tyres year-round, even in extreme weather. Summer tyres lose performance in winter, and winter tyres wear faster in warmer conditions.

Quick Tip: Switch to winter tyres in colder months and back to summer or all-season tyres in spring. A professional tyre shop can store your off-season tyres and ensure proper fitting when needed.

Mistake 9: Relying on Old Tyres

Even tyres with good tread can be unsafe if they’re too old. Rubber degrades over time, reducing performance and increasing the risk of blowouts.

Quick Tip: Check the manufacturing date stamped on the tyre sidewall (DOT code). If your tyres are over six years old, consider replacing them at your nearest tyre shop.

Mistake 10: DIY Repairs Without Proper Tools

Temporary DIY fixes like plug kits can help in emergencies, but they’re not long-term solutions. Incomplete or incorrect repairs may lead to tyre failure.

Quick Tip: If you’ve used a temporary repair, always follow it up with a visit to a tyre fitting centre for a full safety inspection and proper repair.

Conclusion

Proper tyre maintenance isn't just about prolonging tyre life—it's about keeping you and your passengers safe. Avoiding these common mistakes can save money, improve your driving experience, and prevent unexpected breakdowns. When in doubt, don’t take chances. Visit your local tyre shop or tyre fitting centre for expert advice and professional service.