Tyre Maintenance Tips For Van Drivers This Christmas

A recent study* into the annual UK MOT vehicle check-ups revealed that over a third of vans and pick-ups submitted for an MOT in 2024 failed their initial test. In addition to this, around 36% of light commercial vehicles failed their first test, too. 

Interestingly, when taking a deeper dive into the findings, it was uncovered that 17% of the van MOT failure rate was due to tyres with tread below the legal limit. With this in mind and Christmas fast approaching, here at Davanti Tyres, we wanted to highlight the importance of tyre safety and maintaining regular checks so you don’t get caught out. 

For van drivers, Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year, so tyre safety checks are more important than ever to ensure a safe and comfortable drive. In the UK, typically weather conditions can deteriorate in the lead-up to Christmas. With incredibly busy roads, tyre maintenance must remain at the forefront of  those getting behind the wheel. 

So, here are some key tyre maintenance facts to help keep you safe and stress-free on the roads this festive season: 

1. Well-maintained tyres provide better traction and control, especially in adverse weather conditions. Proper tread depth ensures that your tyres can grip the road surface effectively, reducing the risk of skidding and hydroplaning.
2. Properly inflated tyres with a legal level of tread reduce rolling resistance, meaning the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to move the vehicle. This leads to better fuel efficiency and can save you money on fuel costs in the long run.
3. Tyres in good condition ensure that your vehicle operates at peak performance, helping you get the most miles per gallon. Regular maintenance like alignment and rotation helps maintain even wear, contributing to better fuel economy.
4. It is vitally important from a safety perspective to check your tyres regularly and to ensure you are driving legally on the road. Here is a quick and easy way to check your tyre wear – the 20p test.

The 20p test

Simply take a 20p coin and place it upright into the main grooves of the tyre. If the outer band of the coin is obscured by the tyre, then the tread is within the legal limit. However, if you can see the outer band of the coin, your tyres are likely to be illegal and will need replacing as soon as possible.

Alternatively, you can also check the tread depth by using a depth gauge.

A simple test could save you risking your safety and a fine of up to £2,500 and three licence penalty points per tyre, according to the DVLA. 

Winter driving can be challenging and unpredictable. The best way to stay safe on the roads in winter is to be prepared and ensure you carry out thorough and regular tyre checks. 

For more information on our range of van tyres and tyre maintenance checks, click here. 

*research conducted by Select Van Leasing