What damages tyres? Physical factors: Age Wear and damage Road conditions: Potholes, obstacles, kerbs, sharp objects, speed bumps Climate: Extreme temperatures Rain, snow and ice Oil, grease and other chemicals Strong sunlight and ozone Driving habits: Speeding Quick starts and emergency braking Driving on damaged roads Failure to notice a change in handling, noise or vibration Failure to consult a professional when something changes Improper usage: Using summer tyres on snow and ice Mixing tyre types Using wheel and rim sizes that are not compatible Fitting tyres that do not have a speed capability and load index at least equal to or higher than those originally specified by the vehicle manufacturer Re-inflating a tyre that has been run flat or seriously under inflated Using a spare tyre of a different size at speeds in excess of 50 mph