WE NOW FIT AND STOCK TYRES
so pop in today for your FREE tyre safety check
All our tyres are expertly fitted using the latest, state-of-the-art equipment. Fitting includes new valves and computerised wheel balancing. We will always advise you on what is required for the safety of you and your passengers.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TYRE SAFETY
Although many people don't realise it, your tyres are one of the most important components of your vehicle. The actual tyre tread making contact with the road is a relatively small area (about the size of the palm of your hand). It is therefore of utmost importance that your tyres are not worn or damaged as it can seriously affect your cars safety and handling. Not only that, if your tyres do not meet the legal requirements you can face a fine of up to £2,500.00 and 3 penalty points on your licence per tyre.
That is why it's important to check the tyre tread depth, general tyre condition and tyre pressure to ensure your tyres are safe for the road.
Tyre tread must be above the legal minimum which is 1.6mm throughout a continuous strip in the centre three quarters of the tread and around the entire circumference of the tyre. Although it is probably best to replace the tyres when the tread wears down to 3mm as this will help with safety when driving at high speeds or the wet.
Tyres must also be correctly inflated according to the manufacturers recommendations which can be found in the vehicle handbook. Over inflated tyres cause excess wear, shortening tyre life and can result in an uncomfortable ride; under inflated tyres result in increased fuel consumption and faster wear of the tread shoulders plus increased chance of impact damage.
You should also inspect the general condition condition of your tyres for any sign of bulges, bumps or cuts which could cause a blow out when driving. We recommend that you check tyre tread depth, condition, and pressure on a monthly basis and definitely before any long journeys. If you have any doubts or questions, please feel free to pop in for a FREE tyre safety check.
Frequently asked questions about tyres
Can I replace only one tyre at a time?
It is best to replace all four tyres at the same time; however, this isn't always necessary if only one tyre is worn or damaged. Although it can be beneficial if you replace two tyres at the same time and as a pair, either the front pair of tyres, or the rear pair of tyres. This leads to optimum handling and grip on each axle. Here at Class 4 MOT Centre we balance every brand new tyre when we fit them. This will help maximise the tyre life, aid fuel economy and create a smoother ride. Our technicians our here to advise you on what you need and we will offer you the best price we possibly can and rest assured we will never try and sell you a tyre if you don't need one
How do I know when my tyres need replacing?
If you are noticing that your car doesn't handle or grip, perform as well in wet weather or it takes longer to stop when you brake then your tyres may need replacing. The only problem with this being that tyres wear gradually so it might be difficult to tell if your tyre does in fact need changing, which is why we recommend you carry out monthly tyre checks.
How do I measure tread depth?
A quick and simple way to check your tyre tread depth is with a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the tread groves at three separate places on your tyre. If you can see the outer rim of the 20p piece then this could indicate that your tyre is close to or below the legal requirements of 1.6mm. You should also perform a check of the tyre condition while you do this. If you are unsure, pop in and one of our technicians will carry out a FREE tyre check for you.
A second way to check your tyre tread wear is the Tread Wear Indicators (TWI) which many manufacturers actually include in the tyre groves. when the TWI is worn down it indicates that the tyre may be nearing the legal limit.
Can I repair a puncture?
Punctures can be repaired providing that they meet with British Standard AU159. Our technician will be able to notify you if your tyre falls within this category at the time of inspection.
Tyres can be repaired in the central area of the tyre only. The sidewalls are not repairable and for 'V' rated tyres and above only one repair is allowed to be carried out. However, before any repair is attempted to be carried out a full inspection should occur in order to check for internal damage which in turn could cause the tyre to fail.
How important is tyre pressure?
The answer to this is very important. The correct pressure helps your tyres last longer, provides a smooth, more comfortable ride and makes the fuel efficiency improve. This means not only could the right tyre pressure save you money it also improves safety.
What do the markings on my tyre sidewall mean?
The side of your tyres are marked with a code which identifies the size of your tyre.
Here is a simple guide to help you identify the right tyres for your car
The letter bullet points refer to the letters on the picture below.
a) 255 is the width in millimetres of the tyres cross section.
b) 55 is the 'aspect ratio' - the ratio of the sidewall height to the tyres cross section width
the R stands for radial-ply construction
c) 16 stands for the diametre (in inches) of the wheel that the tyre is designed to fit
d) 91 is the load index which corresponds to the maximum load a tyre can carry at full speed. W is the speed rating which indicates the maximum speed for the tyre when the vehicle is at full load.
Class 4 Mot Centre based in Yeovil, Somerset, provide top quality Servicing, Car Repairs, Car MOT's, Welding, Exhaust, Brakes, Cam Belts, Clutch Replacement, Batteries. We also offer a large range of Tyre's fitted while you wait. We are located in a convenient position in the town centre and have a small team of reliable and experienced mechanics.
