[9 Aug 10] Trackspeed Racing Chooses Avon Tyres
General

The leading British GT team Trackspeed Racing has said it will fit Avon Tyres to their Porsche 911 GT3 RSR at this year’s Spa 24 hour race which took place on 31 July – 1 August.

This comes after the British GT Championship in June when the fastest lap was by Peter Kox in an Avon–shod Lamborghini Gallardo.

This thrilling event was the first time that Avon could be directly compared with it’s rivals since creating its “cleaner oils” GT tyre for 2010.

The team Manager at Trackspeed, Ricki Martino said “We’ve had a pretty good record with Avon in the past. We did most of the development work in 2005 before Avon became sole supplier to the British GT Cahmpionship. So from the team’s perspective it makes sense to work with a company that is as passionate as we are to get results.”







[5 Aug 10] Shock figures from Bridgestone Eco Rally
General

In a recent online poll commissioned by the 2010 Bridgestone Eco Rally it’s become clear that people in the UK are dubious about the cars of the future.

· Almost a quarter (23%) would not buy or drive an eco-friendly vehicle
· Of those who would not buy or drive an eco-vehicle, four in ten think they are a hassle to charge/fill up
· Nearly a third of these are worried about the power of eco-friendly cars and motorbikes.

With many car manufacturers looking to produce sustainable transport for the future, the results of this poll show that consumers are proving reluctant to make the switch to a more eco-friendly vehicle.

The organisers of the Bridgestone Eco Rally hope that they have alleviated some of the worries during the fourth annual event which took place on 7th July 2010.

Quentin Willson has driven in the last three Eco-Rallies and says “These stats prove that there is a lot of confusion and myth about green cars, particularly about range, cost and performance. The biggest challenge is getting people to drive these cars. Once they do, all doubts evaporate.”

This years’ event pulled in stars from F1, including Ross Brawn, Eddie Irvine, Nico Hulkenburg and Patrick Head, courtesy of Bridgestone, the official tyre supplier to F1.

If we wish to truly combat climate change, sustainable transport is a necessary future development. For motorists who want cheaper fuel and energy choices the Bridgestone Eco Rally is the only even in the world that showcases just how clever, usable and desirable green cars have become.

A free public exhibition at the finish line in Hyde Park provided additional information on eco-transport and introduced hundreds of people to new technologies such as electric motorbikes and solar-powered ferries.







[5 Aug 10] Pirelli confirmed as exclusive F1 tyre supplier
General

The Italian company Pirelli, have announced that they will supply all of the Formula One teams from 2011 – 2013 with six types of tyre: 4 for dry weather, 1 for rain and 1 intermediate tyre.

Pirelli are no stranger to the racing world as they have supplied tyres exclusively for the GP3 championship this year and will also supply the GP2 championship from 2011. The firm are already involved in the World Rally Championship, the World Superbike Championship, the Rolex Sports Car Series in North America, the Motocross World Championship and several other national championships for both cars and bikes.

The current economic climate has led to a collaborative approach with all the Formula One teams, ensuring that manufacturing and logistical costs are shared fairly and with their return to Formula One, Pirelli has its eyes on the future as research into innovative new tyre developments is a vital part of this new programme.








[5 Aug 10] Bridgestone donate tyres to Mercy Ships
General

Bridgestone have once again donated tyres to Mercy Ships, who are an international charity that delivers “hope and healing” to the world’s forgotten poor.

Mercy Ships operate hospital ships with multi-national staff and bring medic services to some of the world’s poorest regions. They have focused on the massive need for healthcar assistance in West Africa in recent years, which has led to the establishment of permanent land-based clinics.

Bridgestone have given a consignment of Dueler 694 4x4 tyres which will be used on Mercy Ships’ fleet of 4 wheel drive Nissans. The Dueler 694 is ideal for the mixed use and rough conditions faced by Mercy Ship vehicles.

The tyres were delivered to Johan Vroege, Procurement Manager at Mercy Ships warehouse in Rotterdam who says “Our vehicles face very difficult conditions in Africa, even in towns, these will make the job just a little bit easier”.







[4 Aug 10] Just Tyres Newsletter
General

To view our latest newsletter and obtain information regarding our latest offers and prize draw, please follow this link

[4 Aug 10] Just Tyres & MK Dons Sponsorship Deal
General


We are delighted to announce that Just Tyres have become the official sponsor of the MK Dons “Goaldon Goal” scheme.

Just Tyres, who have 38 tyre fitting centres nationwide, have their Head Office based in Milton Keynes and were keen to support the local community when looking to set up a sponsorship deal.

Ian Grant, Managing Director of Just Tyres said “Just Tyres’ aim to support and be part of the local community tied in perfectly with the sponsorship of the MK Dons “Goaldon Goal” scheme. We are proud to be associated with such a forward thinking and successful club and we believe that we share a common outlook on passion, success and teamwork.”

Established in 1998, Just Tyres remain passionate about tyres and currently have 38 fitting centres nationwide, supported by an online tyre ordering service at www.justtyres.co.uk . They believe that their success is based upon customer satisfaction and so invest in their team and premises to ensure that they are the best in their “game”.







[26 Jul 10] Conti awarded top spot by Evo Magazine
General

Continental tyres award winning performance has again been recognised as they are awarded the top spot in the 2010 evo tyre test for their ultra high performance tyre, the ContiSportContact3. A great achievement coming just one month after picking up an award by Auto Express’s in the product honours.

Evo tested the 205 45 R17 tyre on a Mazda MX-5 and chose a range of premium and budget brand tyres which represents the tyres available in the market place today.

Tests were carried out in varying conditions including braking in the wet and dry, straight and curved aquaplaning and finally handling tests on a wet and dry track. This enabled the tyre testers to get a good feel for how the tyres perform in normal day to day driving conditions.

Scott Benbow from Continental said: “We are so pleased with this result. ContiSportContact 3 has displayed its prowess in a number of disciplines which shows we have produced a well-rounded tyre suited to meet the needs to today’s driver”.

Full details of this test are featured in the August 2010 edition of Evo magazine.







[26 Jul 10] Summer Driving Tips
General

We all tend to think about our tyres in the winter when snow and rain sets in but summer brings it's own set of driving conditions to consider.

We've put some tips together to help you stay safe on the roads this summer.

Your Journey: With the increase in people staying in the UK this year it's going to result in busier roads and possibly longer journey times. Ensure you plan your journey in advance and use the Highways Agency to check out any possible roadworks or delays.

Check your car before setting off: It's not only your tyres that are important to check before a long journey, how many of us have run out of screenwash when the windscreen is full of insect debris? We recommend that you check your tyres, oil, screen wash and wipers before any long journey.

Car Overload: With holidays comes luggage and if it's a camping holiday, it also comes with equipment! Make sure that you don't overload your car and ensure that you amend the tyre pressure to reflect a full load. If you're using a roof box ensure you remember to lock it before you set off and if you're using a roof rack ensure your load is well distributed and secure.

Watch the weather: The sun can be blinding so ensure that the glare from the sun doesn't leave you dazzled by wearing sunglasses. Also remember that sudden summer storms can leave the road slippery, so ensure you keep your distance from the car in front.

Above all enjoy the summer and stay safe and if you have any concerns about your tyres condition please call into your local Just Tyres Centre where we will be happy to carry out a FREE tyre check.







[8 Jul 10] Congratulations to our Winner of British Grand Prix Tickets
General

Congratulations to Paul Collis of Cardington in Bedfordshire who has won 2 Grandstand tickets to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, the highlight of the racing calendar, courtesy of Just Tyres and Bridgestone.

Paul, who was delighted to have won, will be taking his son Simon, who recently graduated from Cambridge with an engineering degree, to all three adrenalin filled days this coming weekend.

Being able to attend the race weekend is particularly special to Simon as part of his course involved him working with Maclaren so to see the cars in action on the newly revised Silverstone track will be a great experience.

We're certain that Paul & Simon will have an amazing three days!

Paul was one of over 500 entrants to the Prize Draw and we would like to thank everyone who took the time to enter.

Established in 1990, Just Tyres have 38 tyre fitting centres nationwide and specialise in the sale of tyres. They pride themselves on the knowledge and passion that each of their carefully recruited team possess and listening to customer requirements, which is why 98% of their customers are happy to refer Just Tyres to family and friends. To find out more about Just Tyres, please visit their website

From left to right: Simon Collis, Paul Collis & Ian Grant (MD of Just Tyres)









[6 Jul 10] July 2010 Newsletter
General

To view our latest newsletter and obtain discounts and details of how to enter our iPad Prize Draw, please follow this link

[10 Jun 10] Caravan Tyre Safety Month
General

As the peak camping season approaches, TyreSafe - the UK's leading tyre safety organisation - is running a caravan tyre safety campaign throughout the month of June and Just Tyres are offering Free tyre safety checks to help ensure you arrive safely at your destination.

Over the years, major tyre manufacturers have developed tyres to cope with increasingly heavy caravans and cars, but without regular inspection and maintenance they could fail, potentially with catastrophic consequences.

A recent survey found that 6% of all fatal accidents on motorways were due to under-inflation of tyres. A survey last year showed only 32% of cars checked had the correct tyre pressures, so making sure your tyres are at the correct pressure is one of the most important factors for the safety and stability of your car and caravan.

Follow these tips to help ensure you remain safe on the roads:

Always use a reliable and accurate tyre pressure guage and only measure when your tyres are cold (having driven under 2 miles). The correct pressures for your car can be found in the vehicle's handbook and usually two sets of pressure are given, one for when the car has up to three people on board and another for when it's fully laden.

The recommended pressures for caravan and trailer tyres vary according to the tyre size, construction tye and axle load. TyreSafe has produced a set of tables outlining these pressures, which can be found inthe caravan tyre leaflet on its website; www.tyresafe.org

Also be aware of the dangers of an overloaded vehicle and caravan as the tyres may have to operate beyond their capability. The police may take action against you if your caravan is excessively loaded or has a badly distributed load.

Finally after checking tyre pressures on your car and caravan you should fit a valve cap to each tyre to minimise the leakage of air. As air naturally escapes from inside the tyre, you should check your pressures regularly.

For your Free tyre check, call into your local Just Tyres centre today.

[7 Jun 10] More drivers taking risks with part worn tyres
General

The number of tyre related deaths and accidents on the UK’s roads could be set to rise after new research has revealed that more than one in ten drivers is more likely to buy part worn tyres compared with 12 months ago.

The worrying findings have been issued by TyreSafe, the UK’s leading tyre safety group, who has warned that not only could part worn tyres be a false economy, but they could pose a significant safety hazard to drivers and other road users.

In 2008, illegal, under-inflated or defective tyres contributed to the deaths of 34 drivers and the injuries of more than 900 other motorists.

“Tyres play a critical role in vehicle safety and consequently, some very strict requirements exist regarding the sale of part worn tyres,” warns Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe.

“If part worn tyres are bought from an unreliable source or do not meet the required standards, drivers could be placing themselves and other road users in significant danger. We understand the financial pressures being faced by many motorists but the risks associated with fitting part worn tyres are too high and we would always recommend fitting brand new tyres.”

One of TyreSafe’s primary concerns with part worn tyres relates to the internal structure of the tyre. Regulations require that part worns must be free from large cuts, bulges and lumps and must not have any of their plies or cords exposed. However, without a thorough examination of the internal components of the tyre using an x-ray machine, TyreSafe claims it is impossible to tell what unseen damage may have occurred.

“There are many internal components of a tyre which are essential for safe motoring,” explains Jackson. “These can be damaged by a number of things such as punctures, driving over kerbs or pot holes or running at too low pressures. All of these can make the tyre dangerous and unsafe. The visual inspections required to sell part worn tyres may not identify these internal structural problems and consequently divers may be sold a product which is essentially not fit for purpose.”

TyreSafe’s research found that as many as one in six drivers had bought part worn tyres for their car at some point. It also found that younger drivers are much more likely to compromise their safety by buying part worn tyres compared with older drivers. One in five drivers aged between 18-34 said they were more likely to buy part worn tyres compared with 12 months ago, whereas only one in twenty drivers aged over 55 said they were more likely to buy part worns.

Among the many regulations regarding part worn tyres, they must be permanently marked as such. They must also have at least 2mm of tread depth around the whole tyre and the original grooves must be clearly visible in their entirety. Any repairs to the tyre must have been carried out in accordance with British Standards BS AU 159.

Part worn tyres can come from a variety of sources meaning that it is extremely difficult to understand their history. Some are removed from vehicles which have been written off following an accident; others are put back into service having been changed by their original owner; and others arise from situations where drivers switch between a set of summer and winter tyres and choose to refit brand new tyres rather than refitting their old set.

For more information about tyre safety or the dangers of part worn tyres, visit www.tyresafe.org

[12 May 10] Bridgestone to sponsor 2010 Eco-Rally
General


Bridgestone has announced that it will be sponsoring the 2010 Eco Rally taking place on Wednesday 7th July 2010 which will showcase the world's best eco-friendly vehicles.

The world's largest tyre manufacturer confirmed that they will also be bringing some well known F1 names to the event, but won't be revealing who until nearer to the date.

The Eco-Rally was launched in 2007 by HRH Prince of Wales has received support from the worlds of politics, entertainment, sport and the arts and has been supported by almost the entire global car industry. Some of the previous participants include the Tesla electric sports car, the electric MINI, bio-fuelled sports cars from Lotus, mainstream hybrids and Formula 1 KERS style technology from the likes of Honda, Lexus and Toyota.

The rally involves a convoy of low and zero emission vehicles will travel the famous Veteran Car Run, but in reverse. Driving from Brighton's sea front to London's Hyde Park. At the park they will join a green transport exhibition at the Royal Albert Memorial, which is free to attend.

Andy Dingley of Bridgestone said "Bridgestone is delighted to be involved with this year's Eco-Rally. It is a fantastic event which showcases the vehicles of the future and really shows of the versatility of the different, environmentally-friendly fuels out there"

"Climate change is not something any of us should take lightly. Bridgestone is committed to reducing the impact of motoring on the environment throughthe Make Cars Green initiative and to helping ensure a healghy environment for current and future generations. The Bridgeston Eco-Rally fits perfect with out policies and ideals."

Steven Glaser of Revolve (who organise the event) said "For the past three years, the Eco-Rally has received lots of attention from the media and well-known supporters and partners. To have a major sponsor such as Bridgeston on-board with their F1 contacts adds a new twist to what is already a unique and innovative event".

This year's Bridgestone Eco-Rally will showcase the very latest concepts and low emission technology for the masses, highlighting vehicles eligible for the Government's forthcoming plug-in car grant.

For more information about the Bridgestone Eco-Rally, log on to www.bridgestone.co.uk and www.eco-rally.org

[11 May 10] Audi announces Bridgestone as supplier to RS 5
General

Audi have announced that they will be factory fitting the new Audi RS 5 with Bridgestone's Potenza S001 tyre.

Bridgestone have worked hard to ensure that the tyre meets the demands of the RS 5 in all areas of performance; it's high braking forces, all wheel drive and it's remarkable fuel efficiency.

“Bridgestone is proud that Audi has chosen the new Potenza S001 for such a dynamic performer as the Audi RS 5” says Mr Didier Schneider, Vice President Original Equipment, Bridgestone Europe.

Bridgestone and Audi have had a relationship since 1992 when they started supplying equipment tyres to Audi in Europe.

The new Potenza S001 has been developed to provide maximum sporty performance for top sports cars and high powered luxury models.

[29 Apr 10] Just Tyres May update
General

We've some great offers and updates in our latest newsletter:

Just Tyres News

If you haven't yet subscribed, you can do so here

But hurry as our discounts can't last forever..

[11 Jan 10] Cold weather tyres will outlast the snow
General

In the middle of the UK’s coldest winter for 30 years, industry association Tyresafe and tyre manufacturers and traders alike are pointing to the lasting benefits of driving on specialist cold weather tyres.

The clear advice is that drivers who fitted cold weather tyres to their vehicle last autumn will continue to benefit from safer driving long after the current snow melts away.

There's more natural rubber in the tyre tread compound than standard ‘summer tyres’ so they provide significantly shorter stopping distances in cold (under seven degrees celcius), wet and icy conditions.

Stuart Jackson, Chairman of Tyresafe says “There is a misconception that cold weather tyres are not appropriate for drivers in the UK"

“However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Cold weather tyres provide much better grip in both wet and dry conditions when the temperature falls below seven degrees, so they offer extra safety typically from October through to March.

These tyres also have different tread patterns from ‘summer’ tyres making them more able to cope with snowy conditions. Those drivers who have chosen cold weather tyres will continue to benefit long after the current snow falls melt away.”

At Just Tyres we stock a large range of "winter" tyres, see details on our website or just give us a call for more information.

[7 Jan 10] Don\'t drive blind this Winter
General

One in three motorists admits they will drive this winter without being able to see out of their windscreen properly according to research by Continental Tyres.

This will mean six million close calls on our roads this winter, as nearly two million drivers were close to crashing at least three times in the last year because their windscreen wasn’t clear before setting off.

Researchers found most motorists think they are 'in too much of a rush' to fully defrost their windows and mirrors before heading off to work. It also emerged men are far worse than women at pulling off the driveway while peering through a tiny spot of clear glass at the road ahead.

Preparation is key when setting out in your car, especially during the winter months. It is essential to be able to see and be seen, and an astonishing 52 per cent of people know it is wrong to drive without a fully clear windscreen but fail to do anything about it.

Stopping distances are affected by weather and road conditions and people are six times more likely to have an accident during the winter months. Check your lights, ensure your windscreen and windows are clear, that your brakes are in good condition, your tyres have a minimum of 3mm of tread and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front.

It also emerged that four out of ten motorists don't bother cleaning mirrors or rear windows before setting off in the winter. And such is the lack of preparation that one in five have reported to using a credit card to clear the windscreen of ice.

Seven out of ten never check tyre tread depth and fail to ensure tyres are roadworthy, and one in two never put anti-freeze in radiators. Four out of ten don't check windscreen washer bottle levels and a similar figure don't bother to check whether their wipers are working properly. A quarter don't even check if their lights are working.

Eight in 10 see other motorists on their daily commute who have been too lazy to clear their windscreen, an average of four cars every frosty morning.

Almost four out of ten said they found it harder to stay alert during the winter.

One in five are under the wrong assumption that you’re supposed to drive ‘out of’ a skid when slipping on ice.

When the temperature drops below 7oC, cold weather tyres which have tread patterns and compounds designed for wintry roads are certainly worth considering. They improve stopping distances in icy, wet and any snowy conditions we might experience in the coming months. Again, it’s all about being prepared so that you are safe in all eventualities this winter.

Drive safe this winter and give yourself an extra few minutes to clear all of the windows in your vehicle before setting off.

[4 Nov 09] Cash-strapped motorists neglect their car tyres
General

A recent report out by the AA says there is evidence that there are increasing numbers of people driving around on tyres that are so worn, they are illegal.

The latest figures show 34 deaths and 900 injuries were caused by tyre related issues on our roads last year. They feel that motorists aren't taking tyre safety seriously enough.

In the current economic climate motorists are neglecting their vehicles, if it's reliable, then they leave them alone. However, it's imperative to ensure that you keep on top of tyre safety as tyres are the only things keeping you on the road, it's important to check them regularly and get them changed if necessary.

A tyre that's on its' minimum tread depth limit of 1.6mm is 50% less efficient than a new tyre and people wouldn't drive around with 50% efficient brakes! Tyre companies are seeing levels of up to 65% of illegality on the tyres they are taking off vehciles.

With the current recession it is easy to ignore the state of your tyres because of the cost involved, however, if your car is fitted with illegal or defective tyres the penalties are steep as you could be fined up to £2,500 per faulty tyre and get points on your licence.

Don't risk a fine, points or your safety. If you're unsure if your tyres are legal, pop into your local Just Tyres centre and we'll inspect them for free.

[3 Nov 09] Tyre Price Promise launch
General

Just Tyres are confident that we can provide competitive quotes, so much so that we want to make sure our customers are aware:

"If you receive a cheaper quote from one of our competitors, we aim to beat the price of any like for like quote where we can, so why not give us a call and see if we can help today."

[1 Oct 09] Tyre Safety Month
General

October is Tyre Safety Month and we've teamed up with Tyre Safe to raise the awareness of the importance of driving with legal tread on your tyres.

Quentin Willson, in conjunction with Tyre Safe have put together a short video comparing stopping distance with legal and illegal tyres, it makes for interesting viewing:

To watch the video follow the link and press play.

If you are concerned about the condition of your tyres or need any advice at all, please pop into your local Just Tyres centre and we'll be happy to help.

[2 Sep 09] October is Tyre Safety Month
General

The industry is preparing for Tyre Safety Month which takes place during October.

The UK’s leading tyre safety group are holding their annual campaign to help raise awareness of the importance of driving on safe, legal tyres.

“Many motorists may not realise that they are putting their safety at risk by not replacing tyres when the tread falls below the legal minimum of 1.6mm” says Tyre Safe.

People are not only risking fines and penalty points on their licence by driving with unsafe tyres, they are also putting themselves and their passengers safety at risk.

If you’re concerned about the condition of your tyres, please pop into your local Just Tyres Centre and we’ll carry out a free check.

Follow this link to obtain your free check voucher.

Free Tyre Check

[12 Aug 09] Congratulations to our competition Winner
General

We'd like to congratulate our recent winner G Brown who attended our opening event at Just Tyres in High Wycombe.

" I was both delighted and surprised to learn that I had won a set of four pirelli tyres. May I wish you and your company continued success and once again thank you for drawing me out of the Pirelli Hat!"

[1 Jun 09] Just Tyres customers are extremely satisfied
General

An independent agency has recently surveyed Just Tyres customers to find out what they really think about the service they receive.

Over 93% of all customers are extremely satisfied with the service they receive from Just Tyres, their staff and the recommendations provided.

When customers were asked if they will return for their next purchase, a resounding 95% of people answered YES with another 95% of customers recommending Just Tyres to family and friends.

"These results show us that our passion and commitment to providing service excellence to our customers is being achieved. With so many customers recommending us to family & friends, that's the highest praise we can receive from our customers. However, we're not complacent and will continue to work hard to achieve better results overall and with each individual who chooses to buy tyres from us".

[1 Jun 09] Online tyre shoppers urged to make safety their first priority
General

Motorists shopping for tyres online could be putting their safety at risk by not selecting the most appropriate tyres for their car

As online shopping continues to boom, motorists looking to online retailers for their next pair of tyres are putting their safety at risk by selecting tyres with a lower speed symbol than recommended for their car. Traditionally, many motorists bought tyres at their local garage when they were due to be replaced, however, with instant price comparisons, loyalty point schemes and fitting offered at multiple tyre fitting centres around the country, buying tyres online is becoming an increasingly attractive option. With safe vehicle handling largely dependent on using the right type of tyres for the car, TyreSafe is urging motorists to consider that selecting tyres of the recommended size, load index and speed symbol is essential to safe driving.

“When shopping for tyres, many motorists hold the misconception that their choice of speed symbol should be determined by how fast they drive,” comments Stuart Jackson, chairman, TyreSafe. “The reality is that a tyre’s speed symbol is not just a measure of the tyre’s maximum speed capability, it also provides an indication of overall performance, even at lower speeds. While many motorists may be feeling the pinch in the current economic climate, we would encourage them not to compromise on road safety. Driving on tyres with a lower speed symbol than recommended may seriously compromise vehicle handling, putting the driver and other road users at risk. It could also cause irreversible damage through exaggerated wear or sidewall cracking.”

A tyre’s speed symbol is denoted by a letter and appears immediately after the load index on the tyre sidewall. The speed symbol not only indicates the tyre’s maximum speed capability at its maximum load, it is also an indicator of the tyre’s overall performance capability. The load index corresponds to the maximum weight a tyre can support when inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended tyre pressure. Tyres with a higher speed symbol are designed with a more resilient tread and sidewall structure in order to retain their rigidity when a car is accelerating, braking or cornering. They are better able to accommodate the power of the engine and its acceleration capacity, as well as the load of the vehicle and its braking system, than a lower speed rated alternative.

Leading online tyre retailers recommend that when searching for tyres online, motorists should first check the exact size, speed rating and load index recommended for their car by the manufacturer by consulting their vehicle handbook or contacting a tyre expert.

If you are unsure which speed rating is recommended for your vehicle, please contact us or pop into your local Just Tyres branch, your safety is our priority and we'll be only too happy to help with any tyre queries you may have.

[2 Jan 09] Good Motoring
General

Motorists often put tyres to the bottom of the list when budgeting for car maintenance, and yet a car's tyres provide the only contact between the vehicle and the road, making them essential to road safety. Department for Transport figures reveal that illegal, defective or under-inflated tyres were a contributory factor in the death of 43 motorists in 2007, and played a part in a further 984 accidents. New research conducted by TyreSafe found that more than half of motorists surveyed admitted to not checking their tyre pressure in the last month, the maximum period recommended by TyreSafe between checks. This negligence is reflected further in MoT failure rates, with 1.1 million failures recorded in 2007/8 as the result of tyre defects, the fourth most common reason for an MoT failure.

Function of the tyre

Tyres play a fundamental role in the performance and handling of a car. Its main functions are to contain a pressurised volume of air in order to carry the weight of the vehicle and its load, to transmit traction and braking forces to the road surface and to keep the vehicle stable when cornering. The tyre also acts as a spring to supplement the vehicle's main suspension system.

Poorer vehicle performance

Driving on under-inflated tyres has a significant adverse effect on vehicle handling. Under-inflated front tyres can cause understeer or a reduced ability to corner properly, while under-inflated rear tyres can lead to oversteer, where the back end of the car loses grip and slides out towards the outside of a turn, potentially throwing the car into a spin.
Drivers are often unaware of under-inflation as it can occur over an extended time period, therefore TyreSafe advises checking pressures at least once a month and before a long journey. Driving on under-inflated tyres causes heat to build up inside the tyre, as the tyres require more energy to do their job. Motorway travel on under-inflated tyres can often be particularly dangerous, as heat can build to excessive levels over a long distance, potentially causing a blowout. Tyre failures of this kind are highly dangerous as the vehicle is difficult to control, and the resulting tyre debris on motorway carriageways can often lead to further accidents. Motorists towing caravans or trailers should also be careful to check and adjust tyre pressures prior to setting off on a trip, as extra pressure may be required to support any additional load.

Reduced running costs

In addition to the important implications for road safety, under-inflated tyres can also add financial costs, as driving on under-inflated tyres causes uneven wear towards the outside edge of the tread, which can lead to premature replacement. Research conducted by a major tyre manufacturer and TyreSafe member reveals that by running tyres at just 80 percent of the recommended pressure, motorists can expect tyre life to be reduced to around 75 percent. If the pressure falls to 60 percent, which is not uncommon, motorists can expect to achieve just 35 percent of the potential mileage from the tyre.
Under-inflation also affects fuel economy, with research revealing that a tyre under-inflated by 10psi increases fuel consumption by approximately 2.5 percent. Keeping tyres correctly inflated helps motorists to maximise fuel efficiency and minimise CO2 emissions.

Helping motorists stay safe on the roads

In order to help educate motorists on the practicalities of correct tyre maintenance, TyreSafe has added a set of ten easy-to-follow, digitally animated tyre safety lessons to its website. The lessons are designed to inform motorists about tyre wear and tyre pressure, and cover all aspects of tyre maintenance, providing the viewer with a clear explanation of how to measure tyre pressure and tread depth, together with advice about tools and cost implications.

Top tips for checking tyre pressure

1. Check your tyre pressure at least once a month
2. Check the vehicle manufacturer's recommended level for your vehicle
3. Check when tyres are cold (i.e. when you have travelled less than two miles)
4. Tyre pressures should be adjusted according to the load or number of passengers being carried
5. Use a reliable and accurate pressure gauge
6. Check the pressure in all four tyres as well as the spare tyre
7. Check the general condition of tyres, removing any embedded objects and looking out for bulges, cuts or lumps
8. If unsure, take your vehicle to an approved fitting centre and speak to the experts.