Tyres sold in the UK are manufactured to endure being outside all winter and it is not a legal requirement to fit winter tyres during the cold months. However, it is important to remember that the cold weather will cause the air pressure in all types of road tyres to drop. There is no way to avoid this happening but there are things you can do to maintain tyres and help extend their life.
The following points are what we recommend for maintaining and protecting your tyres through the colder winter months:
- Make sure that tyres are inflated to the manufacturers recommended pressure and the valves are fitted with the correct cap to prevent moisture accumulating. Check tyres regularly as pressure can drop suddenly in due to cold weather pressure changes.
- Always clean out any small stones and debris from between the tread blocks and check the sidewalls for signs of cracking.
- If you are likely to be traveling in particularly snowy or icy conditions it is recommended by all of the major motoring organisations that cold weather tyres are fitted. These tyres feature more rubber in the treads which is made of a softer compound so they don't harden when cold.
- They also have specially designed tread patterns, designed to disperse snow. This gives you more grip, improve stopping distance and reduce the risk of aquaplaning.
In the video below, Roy talks through these points in more detail...
It is important to check your tyres before making any long journies, especially in the cold winter months.
If you spot any signs of damage, it is important to address it immediatelty. This applies to scuffs and heavy markings on the tyre side walls. As well as being costly, punctures can also be dangerous. Click here to check out our handy guide on how to safely repair a tyre puncture.
For more information or advice, please contact our team on 01432 373350 or email sales@htsspares.com.
