Shopping for tyres can be a minefield (and an expensive one at that) for anyone. But if you’re managing a number of company cars, your business is responsible for the upkeep of those vehicles too. And one thing that needs replacing from time to time (at a significant expense very often) is the tyres. Particularly when you’ve got more than one car to deal with, getting the buying decision right is absolutely imperative.
It’s important to get a handle on your car’s tyres, ensuring they’re in good condition for being out on the road. Reports show that the pandemic is blamed for the rise in cracked tyres in the UK, while potholes and the cost-of-living crisis are blamed for a surge in bald tyres. Both these issues can result in accidents on the road if drivers neglect the necessary safety checks. Beyond this, choosing the right tyre for your vehicle is an important thing to familiarise yourself with.
Choosing the right tyres for your vehicle is a useful skill to grasp – and it can save you time, money and hassle in the future. Here’s what you need to know.
How often should I replace company car tyres?
Knowing when you should replace your tyres is a good place to start.
The tread depth should be above the legal minimum of 1.6mm on every tyre. As well as this, you should look out for any lumps or bulges that have appeared, as this could mean there’s an issue. It’s worth noting that front and rear tyres wear can wear at different rates too. Generally, tyres will last around five years each, however you need to check them regularly in case you experience a slow puncture or any damage that causes them to deteriorate faster.
When it comes to choosing a new tyre, you can buy tyres online for added convenience. This way, you can choose from a wider variety and select models that are best suited to your vehicle and the time of year.
Run-flat tyres
Run-flat tyres have been specially designed to keep you safe if you experience a puncture while driving. Their thick, reinforced sidewalls mean they have more durability compared to a typical tyre. This means the tyre can support the weight of the vehicle for longer.
The result is that you can drive approximately 50 miles at 50 mph after experiencing a puncture, so less damage is experienced in the interim. Many people choose these tyres to enhance safety and reduce the risk of damaging their vehicle.
Summer or winter tyres
Did you know that there are tyres designed for specific seasons?
Summer tyres are designed to grip well in warm, dry conditions yet can also operate smoothly in wet conditions. Meanwhile, winter tyres are created from a rubber compound suited to lower temperatures. The idea is that the tyre stays supple and this helps with grip. This means that slippery surfaces are less dangerous if you have the right tyres in place. When temperatures drop below 7 degrees, summer tyres become hard and experience a reduced level of grip, whereas winter tyres are designed to combat this issue to improve driver safety in colder conditions.
All season tyres
You can also get ‘all season’ tyres. These combine aspects of both summer and winter tyres, allowing you to drive safely in all conditions experienced throughout the year. They work in harmony without hindering the summer or winter-focused elements of the tyre’s composition.
Used and part-worn tyres
While you can buy perfectly safe used and part-worn tyres, it’s important to do so diligently. Garages can legally sell second-hand car tyres so long as they meet the right safety criteria. While it may cost you less in the short term, you may get better value from purchasing newer tyres that will last longer.
