🚗 Are Your Wheels Holiday-Ready? Your Pre-Trip Checklist for a Safer Summer
☀️ Planning a Summer Getaway? Start with Your Wheels
School’s nearly out, the sun’s shining, and the great British road trip is calling. But before you pack up the car and hit the road, make sure your wheels and tyres are ready for the journey.
Long drives, heavy luggage, and hot tarmac can take their toll — and a few simple checks could make all the difference between smooth cruising and roadside delays.
Here’s your essential pre-holiday wheel and tyre checklist, brought to you by the experts at The Wheel Specialist.
✅ 1. Check Your Tyre Pressures
When your vehicle is fully loaded with passengers, luggage, and holiday essentials, your tyre pressures need to be accurate.
Use a good-quality pressure gauge at home or your local petrol station
Inflate tyres to the recommended pressure for a loaded vehicle (usually found on the inside of the fuel flap, door frame or in your owners manual)
Don’t forget to check your spare tyre or tyre inflator kit
Top Tip: Underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption and the risk of punctures — especially on longer drives.
✅ 2. Inspect Your Tyre Tread Depth
Your tyres are your car’s only contact with the road, so adequate tread depth is vital — particularly in unpredictable summer weather.
The UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm
Use the 20p test: if you can see the coin’s outer rim, your tread could be too low
Need replacements? Our team can help you select the right tyres for your car and travel plans
More tread = more grip = safer travel.
✅ 3. Look Out for Tyre Damage
Some tyre problems go unnoticed — until they cause trouble. Before you leave:
Check for cracks, bulges, cuts or lodged stones
Look for signs of air loss or slow punctures
If anything looks suspicious, pop into your local branch for a quick, expert inspection
Peace of mind before your trip is priceless.
✅ 4. Check Your Alloy Wheels for Damage or Corrosion
Alloy wheel damage can worsen with heat, pressure, and long distances. A visual inspection can help avoid issues en route.
Look for signs of cracks, dents, bubbling paint or corrosion
Damaged alloys can lead to tyre pressure loss and compromised performance
We offer professional alloy wheel refurbishment to keep your wheels safe and looking their best
✅ 5. Care for Your Wheels with the Right Products
Protecting your wheels not only preserves their finish but also makes future cleaning easier.
Use a pH-neutral wheel cleaner and soft brush for safe, regular cleaning
Apply a high-quality wheel sealant to protect against brake dust and road grime
Browse our range of specialist wheel care products in branch — perfect for summer or year-round protection
🧳 Ready for the Road?
Whether it’s tyre safety or alloy appearance, a little preparation now can save a lot of hassle later.
If you’re unsure about anything, visit The Wheel Specialist for a visual check. We’ll advise on:
Tyre replacements
Alloy wheel repairs and refurbishment
Recommended cleaning and protection products
🚙 Book your holiday safety check today — and drive into summer with confidence.