Tyre checks can avoid Bank Holiday breakdowns

Motorists that fail to check their tyres ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend risk motoring misery, TyreSafe the UK tyre safety organisation has warned, writes Connor O’Rourke.

The three key aspects of TyreSafe’s advice are checking the tyre’s Air pressure, Condition and Tread depth (ACT).

It is vitally important to make sure the tyre has the correct air pressure to avoid a potential blow-out, reduced tyre life and higher fuel bills, among other things, TyreSafe says.

To help, TyreSafe has developed an online tyre pressure guide, available at www.tyresafe.org. Drivers simply need to input their vehicle registration number and the correct tyre pressure settings for that car are displayed.

A visual inspection of the tyre is also needed to check its overall condition. Any objects which have become embedded in the tread should be removed. If any cuts, lumps or bulges are found, drivers should get a professional to check the tyres immediately.

Meanwhile, adequate tread depth is vitally important for improved grip and shorter stopping distances in the wet and it can be easily checked. TyreSafe advises.

TyreSafe’s safe motoring advice isn’t just limited to car drivers but also caravanners, who will also be keen to make the most of the Bank Holiday.

Caravan owners should ensure that loads are spread evenly around the caravan and as low down as possible to maximise the stability and safety of the car and caravan combination. This helps to avoid putting too much pressure on any one tyre.

Caravanners should also inspect the separate spare caravan wheel tyre, which should always be the same size, load index and speed rating to those already fitted to the caravan axle. The spare tyre and wheel assembly from the towing vehicle must not be used on the caravan, even in an emergency situation.

For some, it might also be the first time they have taken the caravan out this year. It is essential that the tyres are thoroughly inspected prior to re-use during the spring and summer as prolonged periods of storage can lead to sidewall cracking or them becoming misshapen.

For more information about tyre safety for cars and caravans, visit www.tyresafe.org