BREAK: Beware under-inflated tyres
With summer finally kicking in, drivers are being reminded to ensure their tyres are properly inflated, to avoid temperature-induced failures.
When tyres are under-inflated, excessive heat builds up within the tyre and makes them much more susceptible to suffering from a rapid deflation.
This can make the car extremely difficult to control, especially as it occur most frequently after prolonged periods of high-speed running on motorways or A-roads.
Figures from the RAC show that last year, their patrol crews attended more than 50,000 tyre-related call-outs in July and August alone.
Stuart Jackson, Chairman of TyreSafe, said: “We all love the hot weather – apart from our tyres if they’re not properly looked after.
“With July and August normally being the hottest two months of the year, car tyres are placed under increased stress from the higher temperatures like we’re currently experiencing.
“It really is important that motorists check their pressures at least once a month all year round, but even more so at this time of the year.”
Under-inflation can also be financially costly as the harder-working engine leads to increased fuel consumption.
Simon Williams, RAC Spokesman, said: “In 2012 RAC patrols attended 344,000 call-outs for tyre and wheel jobs, making it our second biggest breakdown with 15% of our 2.3million breakdowns.
“We urge everyone taking to the roads this summer to make sure their tyres are in good condition otherwise they risk spending some unwanted time on the hard shoulder or in a lay-by.”
When checking their tyre pressures, drivers should ensure they are correctly inflated for the load being carried, such as additional passengers.
The correct settings can be found in the vehicle manufacturer’s handbook, inside the fuel filler cap or on a plate on the driver’s door sill.
Alternatively, TyreSafe have developed an online and iPhone app, where users simply enter their car registration number plate for the correct tyre pressure.
It is available to use and download by visiting www.tyresafe.org.
