Top 5 Tyre Myths Debunked

There’s no shortage of advice floating around when it comes to car maintenance – and tyres are no exception. Unfortunately, a lot of what’s said is simply not true. Believing tyre myths can lead to poor driving decisions, increased costs, and in some cases, dangerous situations.

At Lucky Mobile Tyres, we’ve heard just about every tyre myth out there – and we’re here to set the record straight. In this post, we’ll bust the top 5 tyre myths we hear most often from UK drivers.

Myth 1: You Only Need to Replace Tyres When the Tread Is Low

This is one of the most common – and most dangerous – tyre myths. While UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, tyres should often be replaced before they reach that point, especially in wet or wintry conditions.

• Most tyre experts recommend changing tyres at 3mm to maintain braking performance in rain.
• Other signs such as cracks, bulges, and tyre age (typically over 5-6 years) can also make tyres unsafe even if tread looks fine.

Truth: Tread depth is just one factor. Inspect tyres regularly for damage, pressure loss, and age. If in doubt, book a tyre inspection with a professional.

Myth 2: You Must Always Replace Tyres in Pairs

It’s often advised that tyres should be replaced in pairs – and while this can help with balance and performance, it’s not always essential. The most important thing is that tyres on the same axle (front or rear) are of similar type, size, and wear level.

If only one tyre is damaged or worn but the opposite side is in excellent condition, you may be fine replacing just one. However, you should:

• Match the brand, model, and tread pattern if possible
• Ensure both tyres are within a close tread depth range (no more than 3mm difference)
• Avoid mixing summer and winter tyres on the same axle

Truth: Replacing tyres in pairs is often ideal for handling, but not always necessary. When in doubt, get expert advice – especially for 4x4 or AWD vehicles.

Myth 3: Part-Worn Tyres Are Always a Bargain

We understand the temptation – part-worn tyres often cost significantly less than brand-new ones. But there’s a reason they’re cheaper, and the risks may outweigh the savings.

Many part-worn tyres come from vehicles written off due to accidents or scrappage. Although they might look fine at first glance, they may have internal damage or be near the legal tread limit.

• They can wear out faster, costing you more in the long run
• Hidden damage or repairs can compromise safety
• They may not have the correct load/speed rating for your vehicle

Truth: If you must buy part-worns, always get them inspected and fitted by a trusted tyre technician. But for maximum safety and value, new tyres are often a smarter choice.

Myth 4: Tyre Pressure Doesn’t Need Regular Checking

Some drivers assume that once tyres are inflated, they stay that way. But tyre pressure changes constantly due to temperature shifts, small leaks, or general wear and tear.

Driving with under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can cause:

• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Uneven or accelerated tyre wear
• Increased risk of tyre blowouts

Truth: You should check your tyre pressure at least once a month – and always before long journeys. Use the PSI recommended by your vehicle manufacturer (usually found inside the driver door or handbook).

Myth 5: All Tyres Perform the Same in Any Season

This is a potentially costly misunderstanding. Tyres are designed with specific rubber compounds and tread patterns for different climates. In the UK, we see a mix of rain, frost, heat, and occasional snow – all of which affect performance.

• Winter tyres remain flexible in cold weather and offer better grip on icy roads
• Summer tyres offer improved braking in dry and wet conditions but struggle in cold
• All-season tyres are a good compromise for year-round use in milder parts of the UK

Truth: Choose your tyres based on driving conditions and the time of year. Don’t expect a summer tyre to perform well during a December frost!

Bonus Tip: Trust the Experts

With so much misinformation online and at the pub, it's easy to fall for bad advice. The best way to make tyre decisions is to speak to a qualified professional – especially one who offers mobile inspections and fittings for convenience.

At Lucky Mobile Tyres, we’re available 7 days a week to help with tyre replacement, pressure checks, puncture repair and more – all at your home, work, or roadside.

• Fully qualified mobile tyre technicians
• Emergency 24-hour callouts available
• Wide range of tyres from economy to premium brands
• Transparent advice – no myths, no pressure

Final Thoughts

Tyres are one of the most critical components of your vehicle – and trusting tyre myths can lead to safety risks, legal issues, or unnecessary costs. Now that we’ve debunked the top 5 tyre myths, you can make smarter decisions when it comes to staying safe on the road.

Need tyre help today? Contact Lucky Mobile Tyres for expert advice and mobile fitting wherever you are in the UK.