Tyres and Tracking in Northampton.

When tyres need replacing

The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. Grip in the wet drops off well before that, so most drivers change at around 3mm rather than running to the limit.

• Tread at or near 1.6mm, an MOT failure and a fine risk
• Cuts, bulges or splits in the sidewall
• Uneven wear across the tread, usually alignment
• Cracking or perishing on tyres more than a few years old
• A slow puncture you keep topping up
• Vibration through the steering at speed

Why tracking matters

Wheel alignment drifts from kerbs, potholes and normal wear. Misalignment scrubs the edge off a tyre in a few thousand miles, pulls the steering to one side and increases fuel consumption. Tracking resets the wheel angles to the manufacturer specification.

Tracking is £40 on its own, and free when you buy a set of four tyres. It is also worth doing after suspension or steering work, and after any significant pothole impact.

Signs your tracking is out

• The car pulls left or right on a flat, straight road
• The steering wheel sits off-centre when driving straight
• Wear concentrated on the inner or outer edge of the tread
• Feathered or scalloped tread that feels rough to the hand

Punctures

A puncture in the central tread area can often be repaired to British Standard rather than replaced. Damage to the sidewall or shoulder cannot be repaired safely and the tyre must be replaced. EE Motors will tell you which category yours falls into.

Frequently asked