Your Guide to Tyres

Understanding the Essentials

Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle in contact with the road. Understanding them is key to your safety, your car's performance, and even your fuel economy. This guide covers the essential information every driver in the UK should know.

How to Read Your Tyre Sidewall

The numbers and letters on your tyre's sidewall contain vital information. Understanding them allows you to choose the correct replacement.

  • Tyre Size: E.g., 205/55 R16 - This defines the width, profile, and rim diameter. Learn more on our Tyre Sizes page.
  • Load Index & Speed Rating: These indicate the maximum load and speed the tyre can handle safely.

Tyre Law & Tread Depth

In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth for car tyres is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread, around the entire circumference.

  • Driving with tyres below this limit is dangerous and can result in heavy fines and penalty points.
  • We recommend changing tyres at 3mm for optimal safety, especially in wet conditions.

Choosing the Right Tyre for Your Needs

Different driving conditions and vehicle types require different tyres. Selecting the right one will significantly improve your driving experience.

Summer Tyres

Designed for optimal performance in mild to hot conditions. Their harder rubber compound provides excellent grip and handling on both dry and wet roads when temperatures are above 7°C.

Winter Tyres

Essential for safety when temperatures drop below 7°C. A softer compound and specialised tread design provide superior grip on snow, ice, and cold, wet roads.

All-Season Tyres

A hybrid solution offering a balance of summer and winter tyre characteristics. A convenient choice for UK drivers who experience mild winters and want to avoid seasonal tyre changes.

4x4 Tyres

Specifically built for the demands of SUVs and off-road vehicles. Available in Highway-Terrain (H/T), All-Terrain (A/T), and Mud-Terrain (M/T) patterns to match your driving adventures.

Have Questions or Need a Tyre Check?

Our expert team at UK Motor Centre in Ilford is here to help. We can check your tread depth, advise on the best tyres for your vehicle, and provide professional, no-obligation quotes.

Call Us Now: 020 8553 5177 Visit Our Garage