Kick the tyres Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Try Before Buy It emphasizes doing a practical test of something, like 'try before you buy', not just looking. I always kick the tyres when purchasing tech gadgets. Pro Tip 2/3Action Needed The phrase suggests you need to do some action, not just think or talk about the choice. You can't just look; kick the tyres to see if it's worth it. Pro Tip 3/3Casual Inspection The phrase often implies a casual or informal check, not a detailed examination. He kicked the tyres of the boat quickly before the sale.