Driving Under Pressure Costs UK Motorists £112 Million Annually

A study by The Motor Ombudsman reveals that UK motorists lose at least £112 million annually due to under-inflated tyres.

This issue not only leads to increased wear and tear but also poses safety risks. Taxi drivers, who rely heavily on their vehicles, are significantly impacted by these costs. This article delves into the findings, emphasizing the importance of regular tyre maintenance and proper inflation.

The Impact of Under-Inflated Tyres

General Effects

Driving with tyres under-inflated by 10% or more results in accelerated wear, reduced lifespan, and increased fuel consumption. About 57% of UK cars are affected, translating to 75 million under-inflated tyres.

Specific Impact on Taxi Drivers

For taxi drivers, the financial impact is more pronounced due to their high mileage. Frequent tyre replacements and increased fuel consumption can add substantial costs, eating into their earnings. Over a year, a taxi driver could face hundreds of pounds in additional expenses due to premature tyre wear and fuel inefficiency.

Survey Insights

A survey of 1,000 UK drivers revealed over a third lack confidence in topping up their tyres, and more than half are hesitant to measure tread depth. This lack of awareness contributes significantly to the problem.

Make Time for Tyres Campaign

The Motor Ombudsman’s ‘Make Time for Tyres’ campaign, supported by TyreSafe and Sophie Lyden, aims to raise awareness about tyre safety. The campaign encourages drivers, especially taxi operators, to regularly check tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall condition to ensure safety and compliance with legal standards.

Key Recommendations

1. Regular Checks: Inspect tyres at least once a month.
2. Correct Inflation: Maintain manufacturer-recommended pressure levels.
3. Tread Depth: Ensure tread depth is above the legal limit of 1.6mm.
4. Professional Help: Visit a reputable garage for maintenance issues.

Financial Impact and Solutions

Annual Costs for Taxi Drivers

With high daily mileage, taxi drivers can suffer from the cumulative effects of under-inflated tyres. The costs can quickly add up, making regular checks and maintenance crucial to avoid unnecessary financial burdens.

Tyres that are 20% under inflated, can increase fuel consumption by 4%. and reduce tyre life.

Solutions

• Regular Monitoring: Taxi drivers should incorporate tyre pressure checks into their routine vehicle inspections.
• Professional Maintenance: Utilize services from accredited professionals to ensure tyres are always in optimal condition.

FAQs