Motorists URGED to CONSIDER Tyre Safety THIS SUMMER

With the summer holidays bringing additional traffic to the nation’s roads, Michelin is urging motorists to follow a few simple steps for increased road safely.

While inappropriate speed, drink driving and fatigue remain the major problems and apparent causes of many fatalities, inadequate vehicle maintenance is also a contributing factor in motor vehicle accidents.

While motorists routinely fill up on fuel before a trip and check their oil and water, many forget to do a simple tyre check – particularly the out-of-sight; out-of-mind spare tucked safely away in the boot.

Michelin advises tyres should also be regularly checked for cuts, punctures or abrasions that could lead to tyre failure.

Tyre treads should be checked for uneven and excessive wear and the air pressure monitored to ensure tyres provide the handling, traction and durability of which they are capable.

Improved fuel economy

Both the NRMA and RACQ emphasise the importance of correct tyre pressure for improved fuel economy. In fact the RACQ, recommends setting the pressures slightly higher to improve both fuel economy and vehicle handling.

“Tyres that are low on air pressure have greater rolling resistance which means your car’s engine works harder, using more fuel. Correct tyre pressures will also ensure safer, more secure handling and better tyre life,” says the RACQ.

Michelin Product Marketing Manager, Passenger Car/Light Truck, Pierre Azemat, stated “many people think tyres support the weight of their vehicle, while in fact it’s actually the air pressure inside the tyres that supports the weight”.

“We recommend motorists check their tyre pressure once a fortnight, especially before going on long road trips. Air pressure should always be checked when the tyres are cold before temperature can affect them. Tyres can lose up to 1 PSI per month due to air escaping through the rubber as it stretches,” he said.

“It’s also important to check the air pressure in your spare tyre as these can lose air pressure, especially during the colder months.”

Michelin urges motorists to make sure their tyre treads have sufficient depth. Tyres with a deep tread act as a pump to clear water from the car’s path and help grip the road surface.

“Although the minimum legal tread depth is 1.5mm, a greater depth will ensure safer motoring when the road is wet,” said Mr Azemat. “If tread wear is uneven have the tyres replaced and the wheel alignment checked.”