Motorists are being urged to inspect their tyre pressures today as specialists caution that the UK's current heatwave could heighten the danger of hazardous tyre failures. The alert arrives as millions brace for soaring temperatures, with a yellow heat-health warning active across substantial portions of England from Saturday through Wednesday.
Survey Reveals Widespread Neglect
A study commissioned by Select Car Leasing discovered that nearly half of motorists (49%) have not examined their tyre pressures within the previous month. Over a quarter (28%) stated they wait at least two months, while 15% acknowledged they allow three months or more without checking. Only 23% confirmed they had examined their tyres during the past week, despite specialists recommending weekly inspections throughout spells of warm weather.
Temperature Fluctuations Impact Safety
Select Car Leasing managing director Graham Conway cautioned that fluctuating temperatures can significantly affect tyre pressure, impacting everything from stopping distances to road grip. He stated: "The ambient air temperature can affect the pressure inside your car's tyres. Hot weather can increase tyre pressure, while colder weather can cause it to fall. For every 10°C shift, tyre pressures might go up or down by around 1-2 PSI."
"That might sound like a small fluctuation, but it could still have a knock-on effect when it comes to handling, braking distances, fuel efficiency, tyre wear and safety in general. When tyres are underinflated, you could experience excessive heat build-up, potentially leading to tyre failure, the serious consequences of which are all too obvious. Overinflated tyres, meanwhile, can reduce grip and make tyres less able to absorb impacts from potholes, increasing the risk of damage."
Modern Warnings and Limitations
Conway noted that modern cars will warn drivers when tyres are underinflated via a dashboard symbol resembling a flat tyre with an exclamation mark. However, not all tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) warn of overinflation, so motorists should also keep that in mind.
Heatwave Health Risks
The findings come as the UK Health Security Agency warns the heatwave could heighten the danger to life for vulnerable individuals and place additional strain on health and social care services. Officials have also cautioned about an increased risk of water-related incidents, including cold water shock and drowning.
Detailed Check Intervals
The study further revealed that 24% of motorists last inspected their tyre pressures between two and three weeks previously, while 22% stated it had been a month. A further 13% had waited two months, 10% between three and five months, and 5% acknowledged it had been six months or longer.
As another period of warm weather approaches, drivers are being urged to spend a few moments checking tyre pressures, which could help improve handling, reduce stopping distances and lower the risk of a potentially hazardous blowout.
