Find Tyres in the UK

A tyre fitter is a professional who installs, repairs, and maintains vehicle tyres. They are responsible for making sure that tyres are properly aligned, balanced, and inflated so vehicles run safely and efficiently. While you can learn how to change tyres yourself, you may want a professional to step in for that expert touch.

To safely change tyres yourself, you'll need to know how to jack up a vehicle, remove the tyre, and replace the tyre with a fresh unit. While this is perfectly manageable for the average person, if you don't have any experience with the process, you might want to lean on a professional until you learn.

Tyre fitters can also inspect tyres for wear and damage, recommending repairs or replacements when necessary. They work with a variety of tyres, including standard, performance, and run-flat tyres – all of which have specific use cases.

Some tyre fitters only work on cars, while other tyre fitters are also comfortable fitting tyres on vans, motorcycles, and even larger vehicles, like lorries. When choosing a tyre fitter, try to find someone with specific experience in the type of tyre fitting you need.

You can find highly rated tyre fitters by searching through profiles or posting a free enquiry on Yell.

Mobile tyre fitting is a convenient service where a tyre fitter comes to your location – whether that’s your home, workplace, or roadside – to replace your tyres. It’s a great solution if you’re unable to visit a garage.

Many people use mobile tyre fitters because they do not have the time or capacity to visit a tyre fitter at a garage, but that’s not the only time they come in handy. When you’re stranded on the side of the road, possibly due to an emergency puncture, mobile fitters come in clutch.

They can work on your vehicle wherever you’re located, and like static tyre fitters, mobile tyre fitting services usually offer tyre replacements, balancing, and even tyre repairs. You can find the top-rated mobile tyre fitters in your area by browsing local services or posting a free enquiry on Yell.

Tyre alignment, also known as wheel alignment, refers to adjusting the angles of your vehicle’s wheels so that they are set to the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper alignment makes sure that your tyres wear evenly, improves your vehicle’s handling, and helps extend the life of your tyres.

On the other hand, misaligned tyres can cause uneven wear and reduce fuel efficiency – and, in severe cases, possibly present a safety issue. You might notice your tyres are misaligned if your vehicle pulls in one direction, if the tyres are squealing, or if steering feels loose or unresponsive.

If any of these signs appear (or if you notice rapid tyre wear), make sure you take your vehicle to a tyre fitter as a priority. If it’s caught early, you can stop your tyres from deteriorating any further. If it’s been going on for a while, you can replace the tyres with properly aligned fresh tyres.

Pro tip: for a closer look at what you might need to pay for these types of services, read our guide on wheel alignment costs.

Tyre balancing (also known as wheel balancing) makes sure that the weight of the tyre is evenly distributed around the axle. This process involves placing small weights on the wheel to correct any imbalances that may cause vibrations while driving.

This is different from tyre alignment (also known as wheel alignment), which focuses on the positioning of the wheels. Tyre balancing deals with the distribution of weight in the tyre itself. It’s entirely possible that your vehicle needs both tyre balancing and alignment to run optimally.

You might need tyre balancing help from a professional if you notice poor fuel efficiency, uneven tyre wear, or vibration in your steering wheel. An expert will be able to diagnose what’s causing the issue, and whether you need tyre balancing or alignment. You can find the best tyre balancing services near you by browsing businesses or posting a free enquiry on Yell.

Yes, part-worn tyres are available for purchase, and can represent good value compared with completely new tyres. It is important, though, that you only purchase part-worn tyres from reputable tyre shops.

Part-worn tyres are used tyres that are resold. While they are a more budget-friendly option, it’s important to make sure that the tyres meet legal safety standards and have been thoroughly inspected for damage, tread depth, and overall condition.

Be sure to buy from reputable sellers who can provide proper certification. You’ll find part-worn tyres available from the top-rated tyre shops on Yell. Either browse local business profiles or post a free enquiry to find your favourite sellers.

Run-flat tyres are designed to continue working for a limited distance after a puncture, allowing you to drive to a safe location or a garage without needing to stop immediately. They are ideal for drivers who want added security and convenience in case of a puncture.

Yet, there is a catch. Run-flat tyres are often more expensive than standard tyres and require vehicles to have a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) for safety – something that not all vehicles are equipped with. When punctured, they cannot be repaired either, they must be replaced.

As you can see from our puncture repair cost guide, replacing a tyre is generally more expensive than repairing a patch. You can find out whether your vehicle can use run-flat tyres in your user manual or by asking your local tyre fitter.

Unsure whether you already have these tyres? Read our guide on how to identify run flat tyres now.

If you’re simply seeking high-quality run-flat tyres from a local seller, you can find the best tyre shops on Yell. Start by browsing nearby options or post a free enquiry to let businesses contact you by phone or email.

Tyres should be replaced when the tread depth falls below the legal minimum of 1.6mm, though it’s recommended to replace them once the tread wears down to 3mm for safety. Try to make checking your tyre tread depth part of your regular vehicle maintenance routine – taking a look once a month should be sufficient.

You should also replace tyres if they show signs of damage, cracks, or uneven wear. On average, most tyres last between 20,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on driving habits and road conditions. While these types of benchmarks and averages are useful, it’s best to remain vigilant and keep an eye on your tyres for signs of trouble.

Checking the tread depth of your tyres is crucial for maintaining a safe vehicle and, of course, legal compliance. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Use a tread depth gauge: A tread depth gauge is an accurate tool designed specifically for this purpose. Simply insert the probe into the tread grooves, and the device will display the depth measurement in millimetres.

2. 20p coin test: A quick and simple way to check is with a 20p coin. Place the coin into the tread grooves of the tyre. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread depth is below the legal limit, and the tyre should be replaced.

3. Look for tread wear indicators: Many tyres have built-in tread wear indicators (raised bars in the grooves). If the tread is worn down to these bars, the tyre is at or below the legal tread limit and needs replacing.

4. Check multiple areas: Tread wear can vary across the tyre, so make sure to check the depth in several different grooves, especially the inner and outer edges, to make sure there’s even wear.

It's important to keep the tread depth above the legal limit to maintain grip, especially in wet conditions, and to avoid fines or points on your driving licence. These checks are good ways to get a sense of the state of your tyres, but if you’re in any doubt whatsoever, take your vehicle to a professional for a proper assessment.

The cost of tyre fitting can vary depending on the type of tyre, the vehicle, and whether you choose a mobile or garage-based service. On average, tyre fitting prices range from £10 to £25 per tyre – naturally, that doesn’t include the cost of the tyres themselves.

Additional services like balancing and disposal of the old tyres could incur extra costs, though not always. When choosing between your local tyre fitters, always ask for an itemised quote before proceeding. This is the easiest way to compare quotes and know whether you’re getting good value.

Yes, tyre rotation is recommended to ensure even wear across all four tyres. This, in turn, promotes vehicle safety and improves fuel efficiency. By regularly rotating your tyres – moving the front tyres to the rear and vice versa – you can extend their lifespan and improve your vehicle’s performance.

Rotation intervals typically fall between 5,000 to 8,000 miles, but how often to rotate your tyres also depends on local conditions and your personal driving style. Check the wear on your tyres every month to see whether a tyre rotation is needed or not.

With proper vigilance and attention to detail, you can prolong the life of your tyres, reduce the need for new tyres, and notice issues – like the need for tyre balancing or tyre alignment – before they cause severe problems for your vehicle.

When purchasing new tyres, consider factors like tyre size, performance rating, and tread pattern. It’s important to select tyres that match your vehicle’s specifications and driving needs – whether it’s fuel efficiency, noise reduction, or wet-weather performance.

Additionally, always check for the tyre’s age and manufacturing date, as even unused tyres can deteriorate over time. Reputable tyre fitters and shops will be able to provide advice and guidance to make sure you’re getting the right type of tyres.

Beware, though, less trustworthy tyre services might try to sell you premium tyres that you don’t need at higher prices. If in doubt, speak to several tyre fitters to understand what would best fit your vehicle and driving needs.

There are several different types of tyres to choose from, even though most people use regular, conventional tyres. Here are a few you might want to consider:

• Summer tyres: designed for optimal performance in warm conditions, offering better grip and handling on dry roads that are radiating heat.

• Winter tyres: provide enhanced traction in cold temperatures, snow, and icy conditions due to their tailored tread patterns and softer rubber compounds.

• All-season tyres: a versatile option, balancing performance for both summer and winter, but they may not perform as well in extreme weather compared to season-specific tyres.

Summer and winter tyres are mainly used in locations that experience more intense weather conditions, which is why they’re not as widely used in the UK as they are in other countries. Nevertheless, there are parts of the UK where they might be appropriate. You can ask your local tyre fitters for advice if you think they might be right for you.

The cost of tyres will vary depending on several factors, including the tyre brand, size, type, performance specifications, and whether you’re purchasing premium, mid-range, or budget tyres. Cheap tyres typically cost between £40 and £80, with mid-range tyres costing between £80 and £150 per tyre, and premium tyres costing up to and beyond £300 each.

The cost of run-flat tyres, 4x4 and SUV tyres, and seasonal tyres (like winter and summer tyres) is typically in the mid-range category, between £80 and £200. If your budget is particularly tight, you could consider part-worn tyres, that can cost between £20 and £60 – as long as you’re using a reputable tyre shop.

These are average costs and your exact expenditure will vary depending on your specific circumstances. If you’d like to get a better sense of what you’ll probably need to spend, speak to several local tyre fitters to understand what fair value looks like for you. Remember, these are just the costs of the tyres – you’ll need to consider tyre fitting, alignment, balancing, and disposal costs, too.

For an in-depth look at possible expenses, read our guide on how much tyres cost.

Tyre pressure should be checked regularly to make sure your vehicle is safe to drive, and so performance and fuel efficiency aren’t adversely affected. Here are the best times to check your tyre pressure:

• Once a month

Checking your tyre pressure at least once a month is a good practice to catch any slow leaks or changes in pressure that can happen over time.

• Before long journeys

Always check tyre pressure before embarking on long trips, especially if you're carrying extra weight like luggage or passengers. Proper inflation is crucial for handling and safety on extended drives.

• When the tyres are cold

Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold (at least three hours after driving) because driving heats up tyres and increases pressure. Cold tyres provide an accurate reading.

• After temperature changes

Tyre pressure can fluctuate with temperature. Dropping temperatures can lower tyre pressure, while rising temperature increase it. If weather changes (like winter setting in), check the pressure.

• If you notice handling issues

If your vehicle feels sluggish, less responsive, or pulls to one side, it might be due to incorrect tyre pressure. This should be checked as soon as possible.

Proper tyre pressure helps to improve fuel efficiency, enhance tyre lifespan, and deliver safe driving conditions. If you’re at all unsure whether or not your tyre pressure is correct, you can always take your vehicle to a professional to find out for sure.

For most passenger cars, recommended tyre pressures are usually between 30-35 PSI (pounds per square inch), but it's essential to follow the specific guidelines for your vehicle. Tyre pressure recommendations could be different for vans and motorcycles, for example.

The correct tyre pressure for your vehicle depends on several factors, including the make and model of your car, the type of tyres you're using, and the load you’re carrying. You can usually find the recommended tyre pressure for your specific vehicle in the vehicle manual.

Many vehicles also have a sticker located inside the driver’s door frame, on the fuel cap, or inside the glove box. In most cases, this sticker will provide the recommended tyre pressure for both front and rear tyres.

You’ll also find some tyres list the maximum recommended pressure on their sidewall, but this is not the pressure you should inflate to; instead, follow your vehicle manufacturer’s specifications. As always, you can lean on your local tyre fitters for advice and support in properly inflating your tyres.

You can check your tyre pressure using a tyre pressure gauge, or at most petrol stations. Before you actively check the pressure of your tyres, make sure you know your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tyre pressure.

It’s wise to check your tyre pressure once a month, at a minimum, since this will allow you to catch problems and prevent repair issues before they start to develop. It also means your vehicle will be safer to drive, and that it has optimal fuel efficiency.

If you find a nail in your tyre, don’t panic, here's what you should do:

1. Don’t remove the nail: removing the nail immediately could cause the tyre to deflate quickly, making the situation worse. If the nail hasn’t caused a rapid loss of pressure, it’s likely plugging the hole temporarily.

2. Check the tyre pressure: if you have one with you, use a tyre pressure gauge to check if the tyre is losing air. If the pressure is significantly lower than it should be, it’s best to avoid driving too far.

3. Inspect the damage: check the location of the nail. If the nail is in the central tread area, it’s possibly repairable. When the nail is in the sidewall or edge of the tread, a repair is less likely.

4. Drive to a repair shop: if the tyre pressure is stable and the nail is not causing a rapid leak, drive cautiously to the nearest tyre repair shop or service centre. Avoid driving at high speeds, as the damage could worsen.

5. Call a mobile tyre fitting service: if you can’t check the pressure or feel unsafe driving, contact a mobile tyre fitter to come to your location. They can assess the damage and potentially fix it on the spot.

6. Get professional assessment: a tyre professional will inspect the tyre and determine if it can be repaired or needs replacing. Many punctures, especially in the tread area, can be fixed with a tyre plug or patch.

7. Consider temporary fixes (for emergencies only): if you can’t reach a repair shop and there are no mobile tyre fitters available, consider using tyre sealant as a temporary fix. This should be a last resort, as it can complicate future repairs. If the tyre seems unusable, use your spare tyre to avoid further damage. This will buy you enough time to get your tyre repaired or replaced with a professional’s help.

It’s crucial to get the tyre professionally inspected and repaired as soon as possible to ensure it’s safe for driving. You certainly cannot use a tyre with a nail in it for any significant period of time.

To ensure you get the best service from your tyre fitters, it’s important to ask the right questions. Here are some key questions to consider:

• What is included in your fitting service?

The first thing to establish is what the tyre fitting service covers. Make sure you understand if the price includes removing the old tyres, disposing of them, fitting the new ones, balancing, and any necessary alignment. If these details aren’t clear, ask for a breakdown of the service.

Beware of services that advertise cheap prices but don’t provide many details. They might be hiding charges that bump up the price and leave you out of pocket. If they’re unwilling to get into the specifics, move onto more reputable-looking tyre fitters in the area.

• What types and brands of tyres do you offer?

Ask about the range of tyres they provide to make sure they have the right type and brand for your vehicle. Whether you’re looking for budget, mid-range, or premium options, verify that they can supply what you need.

If you’re not sure what you need, you can consult your vehicle’s handbook and then speak to several local tyre fitters to get a sense of what to do. Never allow any professional to pressure you into a quick decision – you can’t be too careful when it comes to vehicle safety.

• Are there any warranties or guarantees on your work?

Find out if the tyre fitter offers any warranties or guarantees on the fitting service or the tyres themselves. This can provide peace of mind in case there are issues after the tyres are fitted. Most reputable tyre fitters are happy to cover their work.

If a tyre fitter is unwilling to offer any guarantees or warranties, it’s a sign that they’re not confident in providing a high-quality outcome. In these cases, you’re better off browsing other local businesses and choosing a more accommodating professional.

• How long will the fitting take?

Get an estimate of how long the tyre fitting service will take. This helps you plan your day and manage expectations. It typically takes around 30 minutes for a professional to fit a single tyre, so changing all four tyres could take a couple of hours.

If the timeframe seems too long or too short, it might be worth seeking clarification. It might be that your vehicle has special requirements, or perhaps it’s further down in the queue, behind other customers, so could take longer.

• What are your payment terms?

Clarify how and when payment is expected. Some tyre fitters might require payment upfront, while others may offer different terms, allowing you to pay later. Make sure you’re comfortable with their payment methods and schedule. You should be on the same page before agreeing to the work.

If the tyre fitter is unclear on their payment terms, warranties, or any other details pertaining to your tyre change, you’re probably going to want to choose a different service where you can proceed with more certainty.

• Do you have insurance coverage?

All tyre fitters and mobile tyre fitters should have public liability insurance and employers’ liability insurance. This is important in case of accidental damage to your vehicle or property. Mobile tyre fitters should also have road risk insurance.

Confirm that the tyre fitter has this insurance to safeguard against potential mishaps. If tyre fitters don’t have these forms of insurance, you might be using an operation where safety is not a priority and cutting corners is acceptable.