This October, we are delighted to support Tyre Safety Month, a campaign by UK based charity, TyreSafe, which aims to raise awareness of the importance of correct tyre maintenance along with the dangers of defective and illegal tyres. This year’s campaign focuses on air pressure and poses the question, ‘Are you having a good or bad air day?’ in order to encourage the public to check their tyre pressures at least once a month.
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is vital to not only extend the life of your tyres, reduce CO2 emissions and maintain fuel efficiency but also improve vehicle safety. Air pressure plays a key role in the way in which a vehicle accelerates and brakes, highlighting how proper maintenance should be an essential part of our monthly vehicle care routine. Shockingly, TyreSafe have suggested that over 50% car and van tyres on the roads are being driven below recommended inflation pressures.
With over 75 years’ experience in the industry, TECH is widely acknowledged as the inventor of modern tyre repairs. Our diverse and loyal customer network has allowed our products to reach over 100 countries, strengthening our commitment to tyre repair and safety on a global scale. This commitment also resonates highly with us at our European base here in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. Focusing on the important connection between tyre pressure and safety, we have recently installed a tyre pressure pump for all our staff, customers and visitors!
Do you know the facts about tyre pressure? Here’s what you need to know:
- Tyre pressure is measured by calculating the amount of air that has been pumped into the inner lining of a tyre in pounds per square inch (PSI) or BAR pressure
- Tyre pressure will vary and is advised by the vehicle manufacturer
- Pressure for front and rear tyres can also vary
- Correctly inflated tyres will extend the lifespan of the tyre, improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Over inflating tyres can also be damaging as they cause heavy and uneven wear in a tyre
- More air is usually lost during warm weather so checks should be increased in hotter climates
- 3% more fuel used when pressure is 6 psi below recommended inflation
- For every 10% a tyre is under-inflated, its wear can increase by 10%*
- As of 1st November 2012, all new-type vehicles are required by EU law to have a pressure based tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) installed, and by November 2014, all new passenger vehicles will have to have TPMS installed by the manufacturer
- A TPMS monitors the air pressure inside tyres on various types of vehicles. Real-time information is reported, usually via a warning light on the dashboard. Find out more about our dedicated TPMS offering here.
Learn more about the campaign here and remember that safe tyres with correct air pressure can reduce the risks to you, your passengers and all road users.
Don’t forget to check out our photos below of our new tyre pressure pump in action!