Modern cars come with recommended tyres stick to these and you will be perfect. Never have different tyres on the same axle. New tyres should generally go on the rear to prevent over steer problems and try to get the same or very similar tread patterns for the front and rear. Bear in mind that tyres tested as the best on track could be the worst on road. Tracks are smooth and our roads are full of ruts and potholes the tyre may bounce or just create a harsh and noisy ride.

Performance tyres

Tyre pressures also have a profound effect on handling – keep them up to the manufactures recommended pressures for the speeds you are driving at and the car will handle predictably and the tyres will last – check them visually every day and check pressure weekly – regular loss of pressure can be caused by a puncture, a faulty valve, a split in the wall of the tyre or heavy driving so get a suspect tyre checked properly. Driving with the wrong tyre pressures is as illegal as driving with below the minimum tread depth.

Tyre prices vary considerable and this should be taken into account when buying a rim. Often a slightly larger profile can save as much as £200 per tyre! So make sure you don’t end up with a really rare size as a premium will always be attached to the price and many tyre specialists will have to order in stock when you need a replacement.