What should I do if I get a flat tyre on the motorway? +
Pull onto the hard shoulder as far left as possible, switch on your hazard lights, and exit the vehicle from the passenger side away from traffic. Do not attempt to change a tyre on the motorway hard shoulder — it is extremely dangerous. Move behind the crash barrier if there is one, then call a mobile tyre fitter or breakdown service. If you are on a smart motorway with no hard shoulder, stop in an emergency refuge area.
What does the TPMS warning light mean? +
The TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) warning light indicates that one or more of your tyres has dropped below the recommended pressure. This could be caused by a slow puncture, a change in temperature, or simply natural air loss over time. Do not ignore it — under-inflated tyres increase braking distances and can overheat at speed. Check your pressures at the nearest petrol station or call a mobile tyre fitter.
Do I need to replace all four tyres at the same time? +
No, you do not need to replace all four tyres at once unless they are all worn. It is best practice to replace tyres in pairs (both fronts or both rears) to maintain even handling. The newer tyres should always go on the rear axle for stability, even on front-wheel-drive cars. Mixing tyre brands on the same axle is not recommended but is acceptable across different axles.
What is the difference between budget and premium tyres? +
Premium tyres from manufacturers like Michelin, Continental, and Bridgestone consistently outperform budget alternatives in independent braking tests — often stopping several metres shorter in wet conditions. They also tend to last longer, produce less road noise, and offer better fuel economy. For a typical family car, the difference between a budget and premium tyre is usually £25–£40 per tyre, which most drivers recoup through longer tread life.
Can a tyre blowout be repaired or does it need replacing? +
A tyre that has suffered a blowout almost always needs replacing. The internal structure of the tyre is usually destroyed by the sudden loss of pressure and the impact damage that follows. Even if the tyre appears intact, the sidewall and carcass will have been compromised. A tyre fitter can inspect it, but in the vast majority of cases a new tyre is the only safe option.
Are part-worn tyres safe to buy? +
Part-worn tyres carry significant risks. While they are legal to sell in the UK, studies have found that a large proportion fail to meet legal standards — many have been previously repaired improperly, have internal damage not visible from the outside, or are close to the legal tread limit. The small saving is rarely worth the risk. New budget tyres from reputable brands often cost only £15–£25 more and come with a full warranty.