Kick the tyres

usgb
verb

To check the condition of something before buying it.

Before buying the used car, she decided to kick the tyres to make sure it was a good deal.
Visual representation of "kick the tyres" - To check the condition of something before buying it.

Often appears as...

  • kick the tyres and light the fires
  • kick the tyres of a new car

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "kick the tyres"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Try Before Buy

It emphasizes doing a practical test of something, like 'try before you buy', not just looking.

Illustration for Try Before Buy
I always kick the tyres when purchasing tech gadgets.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Action Needed

The phrase suggests you need to do some action, not just think or talk about the choice.

Illustration for Action Needed
You can't just look; kick the tyres to see if it's worth it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Inspection

The phrase often implies a casual or informal check, not a detailed examination.

Illustration for Casual Inspection
He kicked the tyres of the boat quickly before the sale.
Visual representation of the word "Kick the tyres"

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