5 Signs Your Van Tyres Need Replacing (Before They Cost You More Than Just Rubber)

Van and car tyres stacked on a rack at a garage or workshop, showcasing tread patterns and EU tyre labels - ideal for fleet maintenance and tyre replacement services.

Your tyres are the only part of your van that touch the road – and when they’re not right, everything else suffers. Poor tyre condition is one of the most common causes of breakdowns, poor fuel efficiency, and MOT failures.

At Fleet Assure Group Ltd, we help businesses stay ahead of tyre trouble with proactive checks, onsite replacements, and expert advice.

Here are 5 signs your van tyres might be overdue for a change 👇

  1. Tread Depth Is Worn Below the Legal Limit

In the UK, the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

But we recommend replacing them before they hit the legal limit – worn tread increases stopping distances and reduces grip in wet weather.

🔍 Quick check: Use a 20p coin. If the outer rim is visible when inserted into the tread, it’s time to replace.

  1. You Spot Uneven Wear Patterns

If your tyres are wearing more on one edge, in the centre, or have bald patches, it usually means:
• Incorrect tyre pressure
• Misaligned wheels
• Worn suspension

Ignoring this can lead to blowouts or steering issues, especially at higher speeds.

  1. Cracks, Bulges or Cuts in the Sidewall

The sidewall might not carry the load, but it protects the tyre’s internal structure.

Cracks, bulges or visible cords mean the tyre could fail without warning! A serious risk for loaded vans or high-speed journeys.

🛠️ If you see damage, do not wait. It’s often cheaper to replace a tyre than deal with a roadside emergency or recovery.

  1. Your Vans Are Pulling to One Side

This could be alignment or brake-related, but if the tyres are worn unevenly or damaged, they could be to blame.

You might also notice:
• Vibrations at certain speeds
• Difficulty steering
• Reduced fuel efficiency

  1. They’re More Than 5 Years Old

Even if the tread looks fine, tyres age.

UV rays, weather exposure, and heavy loads cause rubber to harden and lose flexibility. Tyres over 5–6 years old are more likely to fail.

📆 Check the DOT date stamp on the tyre sidewall. If it’s showing signs of age, consider replacing as part of your proactive fleet maintenance.

Why It Matters for Your Business

When you’re running a fleet, one tyre failure can take out an entire day’s work. Multiply that across multiple vehicles, and it becomes a hidden cost your business shouldn’t have to carry.

At Fleet Assure Group Ltd, we offer:
✅ Onsite tyre checks and fitting
✅ Emergency replacements
✅ Fleet tyre management and reporting
✅ Access to trusted tyre brands at competitive prices

Need a second opinion?

If you’re not sure whether your tyres are still road-safe,

📞 Call us on 01480 589385 or
📧 Email Info@fleetassuregroup.co.uk
🔗 Or visit: fleetassuregroup.com

Trusted by fleets that can’t afford to stand still.
Fleet Assure Group Ltd – Keeping your business moving, one tyre at a time.

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