Autumn brings wetter roads and colder temperatures, so motorists are being urged to check the condition of their tyres to ensure they are prepared for the months ahead.
It’s worth considering one in five breakdowns on UK motorways and major A-roads are caused by faulty tyres.
With October marking Tyre Safety Month, Nick Hanley, Managing Director at EasiHire, has highlighted some of the key checks drivers should carry out as temperatures drop and road conditions become more challenging.
The most common tyre MOT failures
Drivers are being urged to check their tyres as autumn arrives, with MOT data showing tyre defects accounted for 12.62% of all recorded defects between October and December 2025.
The data also shows that 6.28% of MOT tests recorded a tyre defect during the quarter, while tyre defects accounted for 60.46% of dangerous defects within the tyre category.
Tyre Safety Month is a timely opportunity for motorists to give their tyres a thorough check before winter driving conditions set in.
Five tyre checks to carry out as temperatures drop:
1. Check your tyres pressures
“Drivers should check their tyre pressures regularly and make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
“The correct pressure can be found in the vehicle handbook, inside the driver’s door frame or on the fuel filler flap. These pressure checks should be undertaken when the tyres are cold, and remember that the recommended pressure can vary depending on how heavily the vehicle is loaded.
“Driving with tyres that are underinflated can affect handling and braking, while also increasing rolling resistance and potentially fuel consumption.”
2. Examine tread depth
“The legal minimum tread depth for cars in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference of the tyre.
“However, motorists shouldn’t wait until their tyres reach the legal limit before checking them. Uneven or significantly worn tread can be a sign that a tyre needs attention, particularly ahead of wetter winter driving conditions.”
3. Look for signs of visible damage
“Before setting off, drivers should look for visible signs of damage, including cuts, cracks, bulges or objects embedded in the tyre. Damage to the sidewall can be particularly concerning, and motorists should seek professional advice if they notice anything unusual rather than assuming the tyre is safe to continue using.”
4. Spot uneven wear
“Uneven wear across a tyre can indicate an issue that goes beyond the tyre itself. If one section of the tyre appears to be wearing more quickly than another, motorists should have it inspected. Wheel alignment, suspension, or other components can also contribute to uneven tyre wear.
“Regular checks can therefore help drivers identify potential problems before they become more serious.”
5. Invest in a spare tyre
“If possible, drivers may want to consider keeping a spare wheel or tyre available, particularly if their vehicle doesn’t already come with one. Having a suitable spare can provide an added safety net in the event of a puncture or tyre damage while on the road.
“Drivers should check whether their vehicle has space for a spare, and make sure any spare wheel is correctly inflated and suitable for the vehicle before relying on it. If a car uses a space-saver spare, motorists should also be aware that these can come with specific speed or distance restrictions.”
Nick added, “As we move into autumn, drivers are likely to encounter more wet roads, falling temperatures and changing conditions, so it is worth taking a few minutes to check the condition of your tyres.
“Checking tyre pressure, tread depth and the overall condition of each tyre doesn’t take long, but these simple checks can help motorists spot potential problems before they become an issue.
“It’s also important not to focus solely on whether a tyre is above the legal tread limit. Visible damage, uneven wear or consistently low pressure can all be reasons to have a tyre checked by a professional.”
