Motorists urged to carry out 20p check amid ‘serious threat’ this summer

A motoring expert from Halfords has issued a warning to motorists warning them of the dangers posed by the fluctuating temperatures the UK is currently experiencing. He said many drivers are unaware that such changeable weather could have a detrimental effect on their cars, particularly impacting the health of tyres.

The UK is set to experience a summer of unpredictable weather, with periods of cooler and wetter weather interspersed with hot spells. These frequent temperature changes are a complication for drivers, one expert said, warning that a 10 degree rise or fall in temperature can cause tire pressure to change by 1-2 PSI, negatively impacting vehicle handling, fuel consumption fuel, excessive wear and crucially, increased braking distances which can in turn lead to accidents.

Wet weather is widely known to present challenges for driving conditions, but drivers now need to be even more careful as forecasts for summer skies shift between warmer and then cooler spells, expert Aarron Edwards said. He and Halfords urge drivers to know when and how to check their tyres, what to look out for and how to adjust their driving style according to the weather.

Aaron, who is category manager at Halfords, said: “A rainy and unpredictable summer is something none of us hoped for. Not only does it ruin many of the summer plans we look forward to, but it can also pose a serious threat to drivers, especially those who don’t know how to check the condition of their tires.

“We want to make sure all drivers have the knowledge and tools they need to stay safe on the roads, whatever the weather. Being informed about tire health and knowing how to react to changing weather conditions can help keep the roads safe for everyone this summer.”

Simple car checks to do this summer

• Drivers should check their car tires after a sudden change in temperature – the reason for this is that just a 10 degree rise or fall in temperature can cause the tire pressure to change by at least 1-2 PSI, compromising certain aspects of handling the vehicle. .
• Make sure the tires are cold before checking – tire pressure should always be checked on cold tyres, so check first thing in the morning or after the tires have cooled. Recommended tire pressure will vary by vehicle and specific tire, and drivers can find it in the car’s owner’s manual, inside the fuel cap or on the passenger side door sill.
• Check regularly for wear and damage – changing weather can cause your tires to wear more than usual. Checking the condition of your tires takes less than two minutes and could be the difference between a serious accident and arriving safely at your destination. Make sure the tread depth meets legal requirements with a 10 second trick – insert a 20p coin into the tread grooves on the tire and if the coin strip is visible then the car needs a professional inspection. More information on how to check tread depth at Halfords.co.uk
• Be ready to adapt your driving style – When weather conditions are unpredictable, drivers may have to change their driving style mid-trip. If it starts to rain, drivers should watch their speed and leave a large distance between themselves and the car in front. Crucially, drivers should ensure that their car’s air conditioning is working properly when it rains, as this is essential to prevent internal condensation.
• Be especially careful when it’s raining on a hot day – many drivers don’t know that during periods of prolonged hot weather, oils in the road material can seep onto the surface, reducing wet skid resistance in the first few minutes of rainfall. The added risk of slippery roads in this summer of unpredictability means drivers need to take extra precautions, including doubling following distances between vehicles. In cases of sudden wetness, underinflated tires also increase the risk of hydroplaning, so it’s always a good idea to check your tire pressure before your trip.
• Check your wipers before you go – Inefficient windscreen wipers that squeak, crack or smudge and don’t clear debris properly can lead to an expensive windscreen replacement or even a fine of up to £2,500. Plus, with the unpredictable summer rains, drivers don’t want to be caught short on the road with their wipers not up when the skies open.

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