Worn, cracked or balding tyres can lead to increased fuel consumption, poor handling and braking, and even a highly dangerous blow-out when towing.
There are several things you can do to check your tyres to make sure they are in a fit condition for the holidays ahead.
Checking the pressure is an essential step before any long trip, and this should be done when the tyres are cold. Furthermore, you should ensure that the valves are not leaking and the valve cap is properly fitted before setting off.
If you are about to set off on your first trip of the year, then it is crucial to check for any winter damage, especially if you have not used winter wheels to relieve the pressure on the tyres. Check for any bald patches, and make sure the tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the full tread width - this is the minimum Summer legal requirement throughout Europe. You should ensure that the valves are not leaking and the valve cap is properly fitted before setting off.
On the other hand, if you have taken your tourer out for a winter trip, then it's important to check for any salt damage to the tyres that may have been caused by towing when the roads were gritted.
Towergate caravan insurance expert Oliver Babbage has the following advice: "We get a small number of blow-out claims every year and those claims can only be the result of tyre defects of some shape or form. This could be due to the wrong pressure, worn tyres, excessive load or speeding, and they could potentially be quite nasty."
"In the main we get claims relating to damage to caravans, when bits of flailing tyre can put a hole in the caravan just above the wheel arch. Although, sometimes the owner cannot keep the vehicle under control and there are inevitable consequences."
"The owners just need to maintain the tyres on the caravan in the same way that they do for their car. Some people do allow their caravan tyres to endure a longer life than perhaps they should. With caravan tyres, it's important to make sure that they're in good condition, not perished and at the right pressure."