Keeping you on the straight and narrow

We promise we're not back seat drivers. We just thought you may like to get a few tips on tyres to keep you on the right side of the law.

Eyes down, there'll be a test at the end!

• The legal minimum tread for cars and light commercial vehicles in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre tread width and around the entire outer circumference of the tyre
• Every new car tyre must meet European standards for speed and durability and be marked on the side wall with either E or e
• The grip of a tyre in wet weather reduces as the tyre wears
• Reduced speeds in wet conditions improve the grip
• There are many dangers in buying part-worn or second-hand tyres. Their history is unknown and their apparent normal looks could hide dangerous faults resulting from previous accident damage or poor repairs.
• It is illegal and very dangerous to mix radial ply and cross ply tyres on the same axle.
• It is illegal to have radial tyres on the front and cross-ply tyres on the back - whether front or rear wheel drive vehicles.
• It is an offence to use a tyre that has visible defects such as bald patches, exposed ply or cord, cuts, tears and bulges
• Your tyres must be suitable for the vehicle you're driving
• Use any kind of faulty tyre and face fines of up to £2,500 and three penalty points per tyre.