Tyres are the only point of contact between your van and the road, so keeping them in top-notch condition is essential for your safety. Here are the checks you need to make to keep your tyres legal and safe.

Overall Tyre Check

You should conduct a regular tyre check to ensure the tyre wall is free of cuts, lumps or bulges. Start by cleaning your tyres and removing any stones, mud or other objects that can get embedded in the tread.

Then, clean the valve caps and make sure they fit snugly. If your tyres show uneven or excess wear, you may also need to check your steering alignment.

If you’re thinking of buying used vans for sale Tewkesbury, ensure you buy from a reputable dealer such as https://cotswoldvancentre.co.uk/buy/used-vans-for-sale/tewkesbury, who will undertake tyre and other safety checks for you.

Check your Tread Depth

Your road safety could be at risk if your van tyre tread is below the legal limit. What’s more, dangerous levels of tread wear can incur a fine and three penalty points

Current UK law says tyre tread should be a minimum of 1.6mm – that’s about the depth of the outer band on a 20p piece. Insert a 20p coin into your tyre tread to check whether it’s legal. If the outer band is visible, your van tyres could be illegal and need changing as soon as possible.

Focus on Tyre Pressure

If you often carry heavy loads, frequent tyre pressure checks are essential. Overinflated or underinflated tyres wear unevenly and could cause a heat buildup that puts you in danger of sudden tyre deflation. This is a major safety risk that means you, your passenger(s), and other road users are at risk if you lose control of your van.

Use a reliable pressure gauge to check your tyres weekly when cold. Always use the recommended operating pressures and ensure the valves fit tightly.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of van tyre safety, ask a professional. Remember, keeping your tyres in good condition could save your life.