Tyre Care Tips Every Felixstowe Driver Should Know

Your tyres are the only part of your car that actually touch the road – yet they’re one of the most overlooked parts of vehicle maintenance. At R & J Car Services in Felixstowe, we regularly see drivers with worn, under-inflated, or damaged tyres that not only affect performance but also compromise safety.

Here are some essential tyre care tips every Felixstowe driver should know:

1. Check Tyre Pressure Regularly

Incorrect tyre pressure affects fuel efficiency, handling, and braking distance. Low pressure also causes uneven wear. We recommend checking your tyre pressure at least once a month and before any long journeys. Use the figures in your vehicle’s handbook or inside the driver’s door frame – not the number printed on the tyre wall.

2. Keep an Eye on Tread Depth

UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, performance starts to drop off well before that. A simple way to check is the 20p test: insert a 20p coin into the tread. If you can see the outer rim, your tyres need replacing.

3. Watch Out for Damage

Felixstowe’s roads – especially near the docks and industrial areas – can sometimes cause punctures, cracks, or bulges in your tyres. If you notice any visible damage, get your tyres inspected immediately. Driving on damaged tyres can lead to sudden blowouts.

4. Rotate Your Tyres

Rotating your tyres (front to back and vice versa) helps spread wear evenly and extends tyre life. At R & J Car Services, we recommend tyre rotation every 6,000–8,000 miles, or during your regular service. Rotation may not always be possible dependant on brand or model.

5. Don’t Forget the Spare

It’s easy to forget about your spare tyre until you really need it. Check that it’s inflated, undamaged, and ready to go in case of emergency.

6. Replace Tyres in Pairs or Sets

For safety and performance, it’s best to replace tyres in pairs (both fronts or both rears) or ideally, all four at once. Mixing old and new tyres can affect handling, especially in wet conditions.

Why Tyre Care Matters

Good tyres reduce stopping distance, improve grip on wet roads, and keep you safer behind the wheel. They also help improve fuel economy – saving you money over time.

At R & J Car Services Felixstowe, we supply and fit a wide range of tyres for all makes and models, and we’ll check your wheel alignment to prevent uneven wear.

Book Your Tyre Check Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Book a free tyre inspection or replacement with R & J Car Services Felixstowe today and drive with confidence.

👉 Contact us here