Ground Transport Group - New data shows half of UK drivers risk tyre blowouts

Drivers have been urged to check their tyres to prevent blowouts this summer, as more than half of Brits risk destroyed wheels every day.

Motoring experts at Snooper are warning drivers to check the condition of their tyres, else risk serious consequences this summer.

A tyre blowout occurs when the warmer temperatures cause heated air to expand inside the tyres, leading to increased pressure making the rubber swell.

As the tyres continue to expand and travel across the hot tarmac, friction and stress builds up to result in a blowout.

A tyre blowout is much more likely to occur if the tyres are in poor condition including punctures or worn out tread or the tyre pressure is set incorrectly.

Studies have shown that half of Brits are at risk from a tyre blowout this summer, as they’re unaware of essential tyre safety checks.

Yet there are six simple things every motorist can do this summer to prevent a blowout from happening.

Monitoring the tyre pressure and tread depth are quick, inexpensive checks all drivers should carry out regularly.

Avoid packing heavy luggage and being mindful of potholes will also help stop tyres from expanding and destroying.

Gary Digva, visionary of Snooper said: “So many Brits are at risk from a summer blowout, yet few of us are unaware of how to carry out essential checks on our tyres to prevent any serious incidents.

“It’s vital for road users to be on top of checking the tyre pressure and keep an eye out for punctures and wear & tear before setting off.

“Taking short breaks on a road trip to have a quick check over your tyres can make all the difference, and being mindful that heavy luggage can put even more strain on the vehicle.

“The hotter temperatures put pressure on tyres, so it’s important to do as much as possible to prevent the repercussions of tyre blowouts this summer.”

Here are Snooper’s six tips to prevent tyre blowouts this summer:

Checking for punctures

Before getting behind the wheel, it’s important to complete checks on all four tyres for any punctures, or signs of wear & tear. As well as checking for visible holes or nails, spot the signs of a slow puncture too by feeling the responsiveness, any vibration or pulling when driving.

Steering away from potholes

Although many of us do our best to stay clear of driving over large potholes, keep a close eye out for any road damage which looks small too. Potholes can cause punctures and tread separation which can lead to dangerous blowouts.

Monitoring tyre pressure

Warmer temperatures can cause tyre pressure to increase by 1-2 psi for every change in 10°C. This means that as the weather quickly warms up during the summer months, it’s essential to check the tyre pressure else risk them exploding due to the rapid increase of air pressure. Refer to the vehicle handbook for the necessary tyre pressure.

Checking the tread depth

The heat built up on the tarmac can cause the rubber tires to become softer, quicker. This creates more friction between the tyre and the road, resulting in over-inflation and blowouts. Tyre tread depth legally must be at a minimum of 1.6mm to be driving safely.

Take short breaks

On longer road trips, or frequent journeys, taking short breaks will help ease off tyre pressure on the hot tarmac. When possible, park up in the shade and carry out the quick checks for damage, pressure, and tread depth.

Being mindful of what you’re packing

Stay mindful when packing up the car for summer road trips as heavy luggage will increase the strain on the tyres, increasing the build up of pressure which, when combined with the hot weather, can cause them to deflate quickly.