When should you change your tyres?

Like any part subject to wear, tyres… wear down! Should your tyres become worn beyond a certain limit, you risk your safety! Numerous external aggressions can also affect your tyres’ performance: perforations, cuts, deformation… the list is long. The only solution is to regularly inspect your tyres and if you have the slightest doubt, consult an expert.

There are four main reasons to change a tyre: puncture, wear, age and, finally, damage. The next question is should you replace or repair a punctured tyre? Only a trained, qualified professional can give you the proper answer. If you are victim of a slow puncture, you have probably driven for a certain amount of time with an underinflated tyre without realising it. This in turn means that its structure will have been subjected to unusual contraints that only a professional will know how to detect and only he/she will be able to tell you whether you should repair or replace your tyre.

Wear

The wear of your tyres must be checked regularly and always at different places of the tyre. Use a depth gauge or tread wear indicators with symbols spaced evenly through the main grooves. Please note that there is both a technological and a legal tyre tread depth limit. In France, the latter prevails with a tyre tread depth of 1.6mm minimum. That said, it is best not to wait until the last minute to change a tyre, because as the wear increases, the performances decrease.

Ageing

Tyres can age more or less well. In principle a ten-year old tyre, whatever its wear and mileage, should be replaced. The rubber components of tyres will have been severely tested whether by storage, climate or sometimes unsuitable pressure. After 5 years, you must inspect your tyres regularly, as it is impossible to foresee exactly when ageing occurs due to the conditions in which the tyre is used.

Damage

Permanently in contact with the road surface, tyres are easily damaged. Pavements, kerbs, holes or sharp objects can seriously damage tyres. Pay particular attention to perforations of the walls of tyres, to any signs of tread separation or damage, etc.

Choice of new tyre?

In light of current tyre specifications and technology, you are strongly advised to fit the same model of front and rear tyres. Moreover, respect your vehicle’s manufacturing recommendations, regarding the dimensions, load capacity and speed indicators. Remember that if you have the slightest doubt about your tyres, ask a professional. Your safety is at stake!