Episode 3 - Get a grip on tyre safety with The Tyre Lady
Sponsored by BM Catalysts
October is Tyre Safety Month, and in this episode of Garage Talk Unwrapped – The Podcast, Vicky and Ben head to Westgate Tyres in Morecambe to talk all things tyres with Sophie Lyden, better known as The Tyre Lady.
Sophie’s passion for road safety and her mission to raise awareness of tyre maintenance have made her one of the most recognisable advocates in the industry. From her beginnings in the family business to creating her own personal brand, Sophie’s journey is as inspiring as it is informative.
Here’s a summary of the podcast.
Why Tyre Safety Matters
Vicky and Ben explain that tyre safety is often overlooked - yet defective or illegal tyres are a major factor in road accidents. Tyre Safety Month, led by the charity TyreSafe, shines a spotlight on the issue and encourages drivers to check tyre pressure, tread depth, and condition regularly.
The Key Checks Every Driver Should Make
Sophie recommends following the ‘ACT’ rule – Air, Condition, Tread:
Air: Check pressures when tyres are cold, ideally using a reliable cordless pump.
Condition: Look for cracks, bulges, or embedded objects.
Tread: Make sure it’s above 1.6mm – use the 20p test as a quick guide.
She also highlights how wheel alignment plays a vital role in tyre life and safety, with potholes and curbs often throwing vehicles out of alignment.
Winter, Summer, or All-Season?
When it comes to seasonal tyres, Sophie recommends all-season tyres for most UK drivers, explaining they offer a balance between grip and performance in changing temperatures:
“A summer tyre stops working at 7 degrees, whereas a winter tire starts working at 7 degrees and below…So [an all-season] tyre can handle every single weather condition.”
Tyres and EVs – What Drivers Need to Know
One of the most surprising insights from the discussion was around electric vehicles. EVs are heavier and deliver instant torque, which can cause tyres to wear faster. Sophie explains that many EV owners aren’t aware their vehicles require EV-rated tyres, designed to handle the weight and performance demands.
Part-Worn Tyres: The Hidden Risk
Sophie doesn’t hold back when it comes to part-worn tyres. While she understands the idea of reusing products, she warns that many part-worns aren’t properly tested or labelled, making them a false economy and a serious safety risk.
“You don't know the life of it, you don't know the history of it.” she says. “But playing devil's advocate, if people sold them properly and they got properly legislated. I agree with what DVSA say when they say we must reuse, recycle.”
A Personal Mission for Safer Roads
After witnessing a serious accident near her garage, Sophie became determined to do more to raise awareness. Through The Tyre Lady platform, she collaborates with road safety partnerships, emergency services, and TyreSafe to educate drivers and garages across the UK.
Her message is simple but powerful:
“Check your tyres once a week and make sure you're safe and your occupants are safe.”
Wrapping Up
Vicky and Ben agree that Sophie’s enthusiasm for tyre safety is contagious. Her mix of technical knowledge and real-world advice makes tyre safety something every driver can understand and take action on.
🎧 Listen now on Podbean, or search for Garage Talk Unwrapped - The Podcast on any of your favourite podcast streaming platforms.
💡 Sponsored by: BM Catalysts