Motorists urged to check tyres

With the UK experiencing above-average temperatures, motor insurance experts from Quotezone.co.uk are urging drivers to check their tyre pressure. 

One in five vehicle breakdowns on motorways and A roads result from tyre defects, with a recent campaign finding that 21% of drivers who have broken down on the motorway saying it could have been avoided if they’d conducted proper tyre checks before starting their journey.*

While motorists are well aware of the importance of checking tyre conditions during winter, it’s just as crucial to check tyres throughout the summer months – particularly during a heatwave. 

For every 10 degrees Celsius rise in temperature, tyre pressure can go up by about 1–2 PSI (pounds per square inch) – meaning tyres already at the upper limit could become overinflated when hot.**

Overinflated tyres lead to a number of serious safety concerns for motorists, including reduced grip and traction, less responsive handling, and a higher risk of tyre blowouts – which can be particularly dangerous at high speeds. 

Before setting off on long journeys, motorists are warned to carry out a few simple checks to help stay safe on the road and avoid costly breakdowns. 

Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone.co.uk said: “Many drivers carry out safety checks on their tyres throughout winter but often overlook how extreme heat can be just as tough on them.

“Over summer, many motorists travel longer distances across the country on holiday road trips, so it’s important to carry out essential safety checks before setting off.

“A quick pressure check could save drivers not only from a costly breakdown, but from a potentially dangerous tyre defect at high speed. 

“It’s essential to know the correct pressure for the vehicle, check the spare tyre, and always be mindful not to overload the vehicle – particularly if heading off on holiday with a boot full of luggage. 

“It only takes a few minutes to check the tyre pressure, but it could make all the difference.”

Tyre safety tips for motorists:

1.Check tyre pressure regularly

Tyre pressure should be checked when the tyres are cold, ideally in the morning or after the car has been parked for several hours. 

2.Know your correct pressure

Your vehicle’s manufacturer should have a recommended tyre pressure you should stick to – this can be found in the vehicle’s handbook or door sticker. 

3.Inspect for damage

High heat can soften the tyre’s rubber and worsen cracks or worn tread. The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm in the UK, although tyre and safety experts recommend 3mm.***

4.Adjust the pressure if necessary

If tyres have become overinflated, let them cool before adjusting the pressure. Never deflate a hot tyre based only on a hot reading. 

5.Don’t neglect the spare tyre

Something that is often overlooked, make sure to check the pressure of any spare tyres, in case you need to use them in an emergency and note they sometimes have a different recommended pressure to the existing tyres.

6.Avoid overloading your vehicle

Not only is it illegal, but overloading a vehicle puts a lot of stress on a car’s tyres. The extra heat and pressure can also increase the risk of a tyre blowout.

Quotezone helps millions of drivers every year find savings on all sorts of car insurance products such as older driver, truck and young driver insurance.

References:
*https://www.tyresafe.org/road-safety/case-for-action/ 
**https://www.halfords.com/tyres/advice/tyre-pressure-in-weather.html 
***https://www.tyresafe.org/the-checks/tread-depth/

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.