Safety: When to buy tyres

Review: VW T-Cross

WHEN TO BUY NEW TYRES

New rubber for your vehicle can be an expensive exercise but the results of driving with worn or damaged tyres can be much, much more expensive in the end...

WITH OBVIOUS WEAR

If the tyres of your vehicle are heavily worn, badly damaged, in complete shreds or forever pap, you should definitely replace them. Each vehicle and driver is different, so you may find that not all tyres need to be replaced but there is a golden rule which most shops will confirm: swap a PAIR (2) or SET (4) of tyres at a time, never just replace one tyre unless your vehicle (or other tyres) are brand new, too. NOT WORKING ANYMORE

Even if they look absolutely fine, some tyres suffer slow punctures or have perished to the point where they no longer hold sufficient pressure. They can also adversely affect the grip or traction levels of your vehicle, which, in both cases, can lead to you losing control and causing an accident. Have them replaced!

VISIBLE DAMAGE

If you can see canvas, blank patches, bubbles, cracks or missing chunks on your tyres, it’ s time to visit your nearest rubber reseller. WHEN IN DOUBT...

Not sure where these tyres came from? Or did you got the vehicle with this set but are unsure of their quality? We say: when in doubt, err on the side of caution with a new set. UPCOMING TRIP

Don ’t drive until those tyres are blank, rather invest in a new set before your holiday trip. AGE RECOMMENDATION

Most experts recommend: after 10 years.

THE BASICS

• If they are very worn or badly damaged • When they no longer hold air or provide traction • If they have visible signs or damage, wear or age • When you are unsure of the tyres’ heritage (if they came with a vehicle you just bought) and are in an unsatisfactory condition • If your current set of tyres doesn ’t have much life left but you want to go on a long trip. Don ’t take that chance!