Tyre Explainers

A shocking new study suggests UK motorists are putting lives at risk due to an alarming lack of tyre safety knowledge. As the only point of contact with the road, checking and maintaining tyres is essential in ensuring the roadworthiness of the vehicle and optimising the safety of all road users. Yet fewer than a fifth (19 per cent) of those surveyed check their tyre tread depth every month, which is the recommended frequency.

An estimated 316,850 UK 18-year-olds have applied for higher education this year. Many will have cars of their own and all of them have to get there safely. However, three- in- five young drivers admit they never check their tyres. And around 6 million tyres with illegal tread are currently on UK roads, according to TyreSafe’s 2023 Tread Depth Survey.

An estimated 316,850 UK 18-year-olds have applied for higher education this year. Many will have cars of their own and all of them have to get there safely. However, three- in- five young drivers admit they never check their tyres. And around 6 million tyres with illegal tread are currently on UK roads, according to […]

Tyres are often overlooked but are integral to driving safely and efficiently. They represent the only linkage between your vehicle and the road, so tyres impact handling, braking, and fuel economy. However, environmental conditions, which continue to change drastically, significantly affect tyre performance. Climatic conditions — with temperature differences and precipitation—and road features—from smooth highways to rough terrain—have much to do with how well the correct set of tyres works.

High-performance vehicles demand expert engineering and meticulous care to maintain superior capabilities and aesthetics. Integral to this care are two often overlooked components: tyres and car covers.

Electric vehicles have refined people’s perceptions about how vehicles consume fuel. People are now considering electric vehicles as a better option to save costs on fuel. According to IEA (International Energy Agency), Electric Vehicle sales have skyrocketed from 1 million to 10 million in a period of 5 years from 2017 to 2022.

Just over half of UK motorists check their tyre pressures at least once per month, according to research commissioned by Apollo Tyres. Of the 1,000 motorists polled, 15 per cent say they check their tyre pressures weekly, 11 per cent say once a fortnight, and 29 per cent once per month.

To many, the ever-changing make-up of cities such as London, Manchester – or for that matter even Stoke-on-Trent – represent a joyous melting pot of culture, art and multiculturality. But they are also becoming increasingly expensive places to live, with everything, from rent to loaves of bread, seeming to cost just a little more than is comfortable. And with this economic load a constant reminder to be frugal, it can be quite tempting to look for areas to cut costs – such as on car servicing. I look after my car, the reasoning might go, so it won't hurt to miss just one service. However, that’s flawed reasoning. Getting your car serviced should be seen as an investment: paying a little money now to save future you from high car repair bills.

In the era of cost-conscious decisions among vehicle owners, you can see why some are drawn to second-hand tyres. However, while such products might short-term financial relief, these products require a critical investigation into their reliability. Beyond the price tag, it's essential for consumers to delve into aspects of safety, performance, and overall value that used tyres present. While the initial savings may be attractive, understanding the broader implications, including the durability, potential hidden costs, and safety compromises associated with minor repairs, is crucial for anyone considering this option.