Correct tyre pressure is important not only for safety, but also for fuel efficiency. It is measured in Bar, as well as pounds square inch (PSI), and you can find the correct information for your vehicle in the manufacturer’s handbook. In many cars, these details are also inside the rim of the driver’s door (and sometimes on the petrol cap).

This information is important when booking a tyre change, and can be found in either the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook or on the sidewall of your existing tyres.

By law, car tyres must have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm throughout the central 75% of the tyre (the tread pattern must be visible in the remaining 25%).

If your vehicle’s tyres are deemed unroadworthy – whether through insufficient tread depth, visible damage or incompatibility with the vehicle – you could be in line for a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points on your licence. This is applied per tyre, not per vehicle. If your car’s tyres are unsuitable, it will not pass its MOT

There are a lot of factors in determining how often car, van or motorcycle tyres need changing, based on regularity of use, driving conditions and more. The safest approach is to inspect your tyres every month for signs of wear and tear, and replace them before they become unsafe. Seasonal conditions are also a consideration that must be made when it comes to tyre changes. James Price's Garage stock a large selection of winter tyres, and are on hand to provide advice as to the best time to switch.

It’s not just the legal issues (mentioned above) that can be a problem when driving on worn out tyres. Insufficient tread depth also affects braking distance – a particular danger on icier roads – while a tyre not inflated to the correct pressure can impact on fuel efficiency and handling ability.

Wheel alignment ensures that a vehicle’s wheels are set to the angle of the manufacturer’s specification at all times. Incorrect wheel alignment can increase tyre wear, as well as causing the vehicle to “pull” to one side while driving.

Wheel alignment ensures that a vehicle’s wheels are set to the angle of the manufacturer’s specification at all times. Incorrect wheel alignment can increase tyre wear, as well as causing the vehicle to “pull” to one side while driving.