As the temperatures start to rise, so does the importance of keeping your vehicle in top condition — and your tyres are no exception. Whether you’re planning a staycation in Derbyshire, a long motorway drive, or just more frequent outings in the sun, summer driving puts unique demands on your tyres.
To help you stay safe, legal, and road-trip ready, here are five essential tips for caring for your tyres in summer.
1. Take Advantage of Free Tyre Health Checks
Many local tyre fitters across Derbyshire offer free tyre health checks — and they’re well worth making use of. These checks often include inspections for tread depth, sidewall damage, and general wear and tear, giving you peace of mind before setting off on any long journeys.
Tyre specialists can also spot potential issues you may not notice yourself, such as uneven wear caused by poor wheel alignment or underinflation. Regular checks like these can help extend the life of your tyres and improve your car’s safety and fuel efficiency.
2. Check and Adjust Tyre Pressures Regularly
Warmer temperatures can affect tyre pressure, which in turn impacts how your car handles and brakes. Underinflated tyres are especially dangerous in summer, as the added heat and road friction can increase the risk of a blowout.
Always check your tyre pressures when the tyres are cold, and especially before long drives or when carrying extra passengers or luggage — such as during summer holidays. Most cars have recommended pressure levels listed in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Many petrol stations and garages in Derbyshire offer free or low-cost pressure checks and air.
3. Inspect Tyre Tread Depth
In the UK, the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, but it’s a good idea to replace tyres before they reach this limit — especially during summer months when sudden rain can make roads dangerously slippery.
Use the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the main tread grooves. If you can see the outer rim of the coin, your tread is likely too low. Good tread depth helps maintain grip, especially in wet conditions after a hot spell when roads become greasy.
4. Avoid Overloading Your Car
Summer often means road trips, camping gear, suitcases, or even towing a trailer or caravan. But overloading your car can put excessive strain on your tyres, leading to premature wear or even a blowout.
Always check your vehicle’s weight limits and ensure your tyres are inflated accordingly. Remember, your insurance could also be affected if you’re found to be driving with an overloaded vehicle in the event of a claim.
5. Keep an Eye Out for Cracks or Bulges
Hot tarmac and long drives can increase wear on your tyres. Summer heat may accelerate cracking in the sidewalls or worsen existing damage. Bulges, meanwhile, often indicate internal damage to the tyre’s structure and should never be ignored.
If you spot any of these signs, get your tyres inspected or replaced as soon as possible. A small problem can quickly become a big one at motorway speeds.
Don’t Forget Your Insurance – Einsure Makes It Easy
While looking after your tyres is essential for road safety, it’s equally important to ensure your car insurance is up to date and offers the right level of cover. At Einsure.uk, you can compare car insurance quotes from a range of leading UK providers, helping you find the best deal for your needs and budget.
Our simple comparison tool lets you filter by cover type, excess level, and more — so whether you’re driving to the Peak District or commuting daily in Derby, you’ll have confidence that you’re properly protected.
Conclusion
In summary, caring for your tyres in summer is all about being proactive: check your pressures, inspect your tread, take advantage of free local checks, and make sure your insurance is working just as hard as your car is. For peace of mind on the roads, regular maintenance paired with the right policy from Einsure is a winning combination.