Keeping your car in good shape doesn’t have to be complicated—and that’s where Protyre comes in. As one of the UK’s leading tyre and vehicle care specialists, Protyre has built a reputation for fast, reliable service with over 180 garages nationwide. Known for their expert tyre fitting, MOT testing, and professional vehicle servicing, they make it easy to stay road-safe. If you’re new to tyre care, this quick guide on overview of tyre types can help you make smarter choices.
A Protyre Vehicle Check is a simple but thorough way to catch small problems before they become bigger issues. This article breaks down exactly what’s included and why regular checks are worth it.
Overview of the Protyre Vehicle Check
Before diving into the details, it’s helpful to understand what a Protyre Vehicle Check offers at a glance. It’s designed to give drivers peace of mind by making sure essential parts of the car are working as they should. Whether it’s a free safety check or part of a larger service, this inspection helps you stay ahead of problems.
Designed for Road Safety and Reliability
The main goal of Protyre’s vehicle checks is to spot early signs of wear or damage that could affect performance or safety. From tyres and brakes to lights and fluid levels, technicians look for anything that might need attention.
These checks are especially useful before long journeys or MOT tests, giving you time to address issues before they become serious—or expensive.
Free and Paid Checks Available
Protyre offers both free and paid vehicle checks, depending on your needs. The free safety check covers essentials like tyre condition, brake inspection, and fluid top-ups. For a more in-depth look, full service options are available, which include detailed diagnostics and part replacements if needed.
You can book a check online in just a few clicks or visit your local branch for walk-in availability, making the process quick and hassle-free.
Tyre Inspection and Pressure Check
Tyres are one of the most important safety components on any vehicle, and they’re at the heart of Protyre’s vehicle check. These inspections ensure your tyres are safe, road legal, and performing as they should in all conditions.
Tread Depth and Tyre Condition
Protyre technicians start by inspecting the tread and overall health of each tyre. This part of the check focuses on:
- Tread depth: Ensuring it meets the UK legal minimum of 1.6mm
- Tyre wear: Looking for uneven tread, which can signal alignment or pressure issues
- Visible damage: Checking for cracks, sidewall bulges, or foreign objects
If you’re unsure what type of tyre suits your driving style, this article on tyre types breaks it down in simple terms—helping you make confident choices for performance and safety.
Pressure and Valve Check
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for fuel efficiency, tyre life, and overall safety. During the check, Protyre ensures each tyre is inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended level.
They’ll also inspect the tyre valves for cracks or slow leaks—small issues that can lead to major performance problems if left unresolved. Adjustments are made on the spot where needed, helping your tyres stay in top condition longer.
Brake and Suspension Components
After tyres, your brakes and suspension system are the next most important factors in keeping your vehicle safe and stable. Protyre’s vehicle check includes a thorough visual inspection of these key areas to ensure everything is functioning as it should. If you’re wondering what else counts as essential maintenance, here’s a helpful read on Essential Auto Services Every Car Owner Should Know About.
Brake Pads and Discs
Brakes are your vehicle’s first line of defense in emergency situations, so even minor wear matters. Protyre technicians visually inspect both the brake pads and discs to check for:
- Pad thickness: Making sure there’s enough material left to function safely
- Signs of glazing or cracking, which could reduce braking power
- Disc surface wear or warping, which may cause vibrations during braking
Technicians also review brake fluid levels, as low or discolored fluid can point to leaks or moisture contamination. If any parts show excessive wear or signs of failure, Protyre may recommend a full brake inspection or replacement to keep your vehicle responsive and safe.
Suspension and Steering Play
For the suspension system, the check includes a look at key components such as shocks, struts, and ball joints. Any visible damage, leakage, or wear can signal trouble, especially if the vehicle feels unstable or bounces excessively over bumps.
Technicians also test for steering play—excess movement in the steering wheel that could indicate worn linkages or alignment issues. Even subtle imbalances here can affect handling and safety, so identifying them early can save you from more serious repairs down the line.
Lights, Wipers, and Battery Health
It’s easy to overlook some of the smaller components of your vehicle, but they’re essential for safe, everyday driving. During a Protyre Vehicle Check, technicians give careful attention to lights, wipers, and battery health—elements that play a big role in visibility, awareness, and reliability.
Front and Rear Lighting
Protyre checks the full range of exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, reverse lights, and fog lamps. Each one is tested for functionality to ensure you’re visible to others and compliant with road safety regulations.
If any bulbs are dim, flickering, or completely out, technicians may recommend a replacement. Dim lighting isn’t just inconvenient—it can compromise your safety in low-visibility conditions or during night driving.
Windscreen Wipers and Fluid
Wipers are often ignored until the weather turns bad, but they’re checked as part of the inspection. Technicians look for worn or torn blades that might leave streaks or skip across the glass.
They also check the screen wash level to ensure it’s topped up and ready to clear dirt or salt from your windscreen. Poor visibility caused by ineffective wipers or empty washer fluid can become a real hazard in heavy rain or snowy conditions.
Battery Check
The battery is inspected for overall condition and signs of age-related wear. Protyre technicians review:
- The terminal connections to check for corrosion or looseness
- The charge level to assess how well the battery is holding power
- Estimated remaining lifespan, especially for older batteries
If your battery shows signs of weakening, you’ll get a clear recommendation on whether it’s time to replace it—before it leaves you stranded.
Exhaust and Underbody Checks
What’s happening underneath your vehicle is just as important as what’s under the bonnet. Protyre’s vehicle check includes a close look at the exhaust and underbody—areas that can quietly develop problems over time. These inspections help protect your car’s structure, performance, and environmental compliance.
Exhaust System Condition
The exhaust system is checked for signs of wear that may not always be visible but can seriously affect your car’s emissions and noise levels. Technicians look for:
- Leaks, which may cause increased emissions or poor fuel efficiency
- Rust and corrosion, especially around joints and brackets
- Loose or hanging parts, which can pose safety risks or lead to damage while driving
Unusual sounds—like rattling or a loud, booming exhaust—can also point to cracks or damage. Similarly, strong fuel smells inside or around the vehicle might indicate a leak that needs urgent attention.
Underbody Visual Inspection
The underside of the car is inspected for general condition and structural integrity. This includes checking for damage to the frame, undertray, and mounting points.
Technicians look for corrosion that could weaken the chassis, as well as loose panels or protective covers that may have shifted out of place. Even minor issues here, like a missing undertray bolt or rusted bracket, can lead to more serious problems if left unaddressed.
By including these checks, Protyre helps ensure your vehicle stays safe, efficient, and structurally sound on every journey.
Fluid Levels and Top-Ups
Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. They help your engine stay cool, your brakes stay responsive, and your steering feel smooth. As part of the Protyre Vehicle Check, technicians inspect all essential fluid levels and flag anything that needs topping up, replacing, or further investigation.
If you’re trying to stay on top of regular car care, this guide on offers a simple overview of what to check—and when.
Engine Oil and Coolant
Your engine relies on clean, sufficient oil to stay lubricated and avoid overheating. During the check, technicians assess the oil level and also look at its clarity—dark, gritty oil may indicate it’s time for a service. If the oil is running low, it could point to a slow leak or overdue maintenance.
Coolant is just as critical. It’s checked for both volume and condition. A low coolant level or a murky, rusty appearance might signal a leak or internal corrosion. Either issue can lead to engine overheating, so early detection is key.
Brake Fluid and Power Steering
Brake fluid is inspected to ensure it meets the required level and looks clean. Discoloured fluid or low volume could mean there’s moisture in the system or a slow leak, which can affect braking performance.
The power steering fluid is also reviewed for proper levels and clarity. If it’s too low or shows signs of contamination, Protyre may recommend a top-up or replacement. Keeping these fluids in check ensures your car remains smooth to drive and responsive under pressure.
Conclusion
A Protyre Vehicle Check is a simple yet powerful way to stay ahead of potential issues. From tyres and brakes to fluids and underbody condition, the inspection covers all the essentials that keep your car safe, reliable, and ready for the road.
Whether you’re preparing for an MOT, heading out on a long trip, or just want peace of mind, this check offers real value—often at no cost. It helps catch small problems early, saving you from more expensive repairs later on.
You can book a check online in minutes or stop by your local Protyre branch to get started.
