Drivers warned over common tyre mistake which could risk up to £10,000 fine

Drivers are being warned about a common tyre mistake that could risk up to £10,000 in fines.

Tyre pressure is an often an ignored part of proper car maintenance - but it can have dangerous consequences when forgotten.

Incorrectly inflated tyres can lead to horrific consequences on the road and hefty fines if caught.

In the UK, those driving with unsuitably inflated tyres can face a disqualification from driving and up to £10,000 in fines.

If pulled over by police, each tyre that is underinflated enough that it is no longer road worthy will have the driver receive three penalty points on their license and a £2,500 fine.

A spokesperson for StressFreeCarRental.com said: “There’s no reason why drivers and pedestrians alike should be put at risk when it’s so easily avoidable.

“We aim to inform Britain on how to check what their tyre pressure should be, what it actually is, and what any mismatch may cause.

How does low tyre pressure affect a car?

Drivers are being warned about a common tyre mistake (Getty Images)

During a corner or whilst breaking, under-inflation puts more stress on the tyre sidewalls which then generates more heat and leads to less traction.

This stops the driver from being able to maintain as much control of their vehicle as the contact point of the tyre with the road is less stable.

Because of this, the car’s responsiveness will drop dramatically, as well as an increase in braking distances. This difference could prove crucial in emergencies.

Moreover, the same stress being put onto the tyre will drastically reduce its lifespan as the tread, especially on the inner and outer shoulders, becomes worn much quicker.

This can further worsen the vehicle’s grip on the road to up to 50% less contact, or even cause a blowout.

How do you check tyre pressure?

Have you checked your tyres recently? (Getty Images)

A tyre can lose pressure for a few different reasons such as the temperature falling in winter, the wheel not being cleaned when the tyre is fitted, or an accidental puncture.

However, even without any of these a tyre will lose some of its pressure at a rate of one psi per month meaning regular checking is required.

Tyre pressure can be checked by using either handheld pressure checkers which can be bought, or by going to some petrol stations which have tyre inflation stations installed.

Especially under-inflated tyres will also look different to the eye as they will seem drooped, and will feel soft to the touch.

To learn what the correct or recommended amount of tyre pressure a vehicle should have is, it is as simple as either checking the vehicle manual or looking for it to be printed inside the driver’s side door or underneath the fuel cap.

How to inflate tyres correctly

Once the recommended tyre pressure has been found, it’s possible to inflate your tyres at the aforementioned petrol station tyre inflation stations.

If you’re still unsure, a mechanic will also be happy to inflate tyres to the correct level.

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