THE NEED TO CHECK YOUR TYRES

According to the law, the tread depth of a tyre must be a minimum of 1.6mm across the main three quarters of the tyre. If part, or all of this area is below 1.6mm, the tyre would be classed as illegal. Although this is the legal limit, it's recommended that you should change your tyres when the tread depth reaches 3mm. This ensures your grip is at optimum levels, which is particularly important in winter, when the weather conditions cause the roads to be more slippery.

There are a few ways to check your tread depth:

* Look out for tread wear indicators built into the main grooves of the tyre - if the tread is level with the top of the indicator, they need to be replaced.

* You can also use a calibrated tyre gauge which will show you how close you are to reaching the limit.

* If you don't have either of the above, you can do the 20p test. Place a 20p coin into the groove of your tyre - if the outer rim is obscured, your tyre is above the legal limit.



Tyre Pressure

Ideally you need to check your tyre pressure every 1-2 months. You can find your car's recommended pressure in the owner's manual, and there is often a sticker on your car door too. Plus, with fuel prices skyrocketing, it's even more important to keep an eye on your tyre pressure - as underinflated tyres can minimise fuel economy, leading to you using more fuel unnecessarily.

If you're unsure how to check your tyre pressure, you need to use a pressure gauge when your tyres are cool. This will take a reading that will tell you if your tyre is under or over inflated. If it's over inflated, you just need to let some a...