Drivers up and down the country are facing the rising cost of fuel, with many of us doing what we can to try and keep fuel consumption down.
Experts are now urging drivers to monitor their fuel use by simply checking their tyres. According to Kwik Fit, tyres account for up to 20 per cent of a car’s fuel consumption.
Tyres lose air at a rate of up to two pounds per square inch (PSI) every month. Drivers are urged to check their tyre pressure regularly, as it can help preserve fuel levels, reports the Express.
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If tyres are just slightly distorted due to incorrect pressure levels, drivers will be using more fuel. This is due to the added friction that a dodgy tyre creates.
This can be easily checked with a 20p coin. Law in the UK states that tyre tread on cars must be at a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread around its entire circumference.
If you place a 20p coin in the main tread grooves of the tyre, and the coin is covered when it is inserted, then the tread is above the legal limit. If the outer band of the coin is still visible, the tyres could be unsafe and should be checked by a qualified tyre professional.
Drivers should check in at least three locations around the tyre - and are recommended to do this at least once a month. Aside from fuel consumption, drivers could also face fines of up to £10,000 for not having the correct legal tyre tread depth.
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