With half term around the corner, many UK families will soon pack up the car and head to the motorway for a family break. While most drivers check fuel levels and plan their route, tyres are often overlooked.
Tyres are the only part of your vehicle that touch the road. Small issues such as incorrect pressure or hidden damage can affect braking distance and steering control. Left unchecked, they can also lead to costly repairs.
In 2023, 190 people were killed or seriously injured on UK roads where defective tyres were a factor, up 29% on 2022 and the highest figure since 2018.
To help you stay safe on the road, Nationwide Vehicle Contracts shares six simple checks every driver should do before setting off.
Under-inflated tyres create greater rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and increasing fuel usage. Even a small drop below the recommended PSI can have a noticeable impact.
Michelin states that underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 6%. Tyres will also wear faster and more unevenly, leading to avoidable replacement costs.
Use a reliable pressure gauge and compare the reading to the recommended PSI for your vehicle.
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. You can check the tread depth of your tyre by inserting a 20p coin into the main tread grooves. If the outer band of the coin is fully hidden, the tread depth is generally above the legal limit. If the band is visible, the tyre may be too worn and should be checked professionally. Book a professional check.
Worn tread reduces grip, especially in wet weather. This increases stopping distances and the risk of aquaplaning.
Do not rely on the number printed on the tyre wall. The correct PSI is usually displayed inside the driver side door frame or inside the fuel cap flap. This takes seconds to find and prevents guesswork.
Using the wrong pressure affects handling and efficiency. It also shortens tyre life.
Modern tyre pressure monitoring systems are designed to alert drivers early and rarely activate without cause. If your tyre pressure monitoring system light comes on, act on it.
These systems alert you when pressure drops. A slow puncture is a common trigger, and continuing to drive can result in irreversible tyre damage or total failure.
Check pressures as soon as it is safe. If the light stays on after inflating, arrange a professional inspection.
Before loading the car, spend 30 seconds walking around the vehicle. Look for:
- Bulges
- Cracks
- Nails or screws in the tread
- Uneven wear
Damage often happens after hitting potholes or kerbs and can go unnoticed during everyday driving. A 30-second check can prevent a breakdown on the motorway.
Drivers often focus only on tread depth, but sidewall damage is a common cause of blowouts.
Look for bubbles, deep cuts, or visible cracks. Sidewall damage weakens the tyre structure and increases the risk of a blowout at higher speeds.
“Half-term journeys often involve heavier loads, longer distances, and higher speeds. Spending just a couple of minutes checking tyre pressure and the condition of the tyres before putting your family in the car is one of the simplest safety steps drivers can take, and it can also help avoid unnecessary running costs.”
Before you set off this half term, take two minutes to check your tyres. By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk on the road and help avoid unnecessary costs.
For more practical driving advice and car care tips, visit our Motoring Guides hub.
Originally posted: 13th February 2026
