Why are tyres one of the top reasons for breakdowns in the UK, and how can you avoid them?

According to data sourced from National Highways, one of the biggest causes of car breakdowns is tyres, and in a lot of these cases, the breakdowns are completely avoidable with a few safety checks and maintenance.

This winter, it’s even more important that you are vigilant about the state of your tyres, with additional hazards such as ice, snow, and rain. So, what’s the main cause of these breakdowns, and how can you avoid them?

What is causing breakdowns?

Historically, tyres have consistently been the number one reason, although this year batteries have been the biggest cause of breakdowns. When it comes to tyres, there are three main causes: 

• Punctured tyres
  
  Punctures are a common issue, often caused by sharp objects on the road, such as nails or glass that is not always immediately obvious depending on how the object penetrates the tyre. While some punctures can be repaired, many require a full tyre replacement.

• Insufficient tread depth
  
  Many drivers are unaware that the legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm. Driving with insufficient tread not only puts you at risk of points on your licence and a hefty fine, but a shallow tread depth also significantly reduces your tyres’ ability to grip, especially in wet or icy conditions.

• Underinflated or overinflated tyres
  
  Overinflated tyres will mean less contact with the road, a more uncomfortable drive, and a risk of a blowout. Underinflated tyres, however, can reduce traction and grip while creating excess heat build-up and damage, which could eventually cause a breakdown of your tyres.

How to avoid breakdowns

While sometimes tyre failure can just be poor luck in cases such as punctures, it’s largely down to routine maintenance and proactive checks. This habit can, down the road, save you time, money, and stress—especially considering the risk of being stranded at the side of a busy road.

Here are three essential checks you can do to keep your tyres in good health:

• Check your tyre pressure regularly
  
  Most modern cars now have TPMS sensors; however, don’t let this give you the false impression that you can ignore regular manual checks. Changes in the weight of your vehicle and outside temperature can all impact your tyre pressures. Check them often to avoid premature wear, which can save you money later on.

• Check tread depth at least once a month
  
  Your tread depth can be an indicator of the health of your tyre. Firstly, premature tyre wear can be caused by external factors from your car, or direct issues such as tyre pressure or damage. This is why it’s important to check your tread depth often; it ensures that your tyres are healthy and safe, and also lets you identify any potential issues early.

• Inspect for damage
  
  These checks can be done at the same time as checking your tread depth. Inspect the inner and outer positions of your tyres, looking for cuts, bulges, cracks, or any embedded objects. Even small damage can compromise the structure of your tyres, creating a risk of a sudden blowout.

Your tyres are the only connection your vehicle has with the road, making their safe condition crucial. Therefore, any issues identified during checks should prompt an immediate visit to a professional.

To learn more about smart tyre checks, our partner Paul Cowland has written a useful blog, “Why checking your tyres is so important and when to leave it to the professionals,” which will help you prepare for any potential issues.

Poor tyre maintenance can cause a significant safety threat. Fortunately, the good news is that most tyre issues are preventable, and with a little vigilance and maintenance added to your routine, you can drastically reduce the risk of a breakdown, ensuring you and your vehicle remain safe on the road.

Need a replacement? If you’re looking for reliable, affordable tyres, the Envoy range has exactly what you need. Check out our product page to browse the range, or use our handy contact form to find your local Envoy dealer.