Tyre risk for performance cars

20 February 2007

30% of tyres from performance cars defective
That's three times the national average
Drivers urged to check tyres regularly

Performance car drivers need to be especially diligent about checking their cars' tyres

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New research has shown that performance car drivers are putting themselves and others at risk by not checking their tyres regularly.

The research was conducted by Tyresafe, a not-for-profit organisation promoting tyre safety for the Tyre Industry Council. At a major tyre dealer in the south of England, a two-month survey of tyres removed from performance cars showed that 30% were badly worn or defective.

That figure represents almost three times the national average - the national average is 12% for defective tyres and a further 12% have at least one tyre below between 1.6mm to 2mm.

As well as risking a £2500 fine and three penalty points, drivers with worn tyres are risking accident and serious injury, especially in wet conditions. Independent research by the tyre industry has shown that the ability of tyres to grip in the wet falls dramatically with a tread of less than 3mm.

Part of the problem with performance cars is that they are often not used regularly, and their tyres are more concealed by the wheelarches than normal cars. This means that tyres are not checked regularly and the tyres are more difficult to inspect.

Drivers are being urged to check their car's tyres regularly, either by doing so themselves or by making use of the free tyre checks offered by most tyre fitters. With performance cars, this is all the more important, so that the tyres are legal and can match the performance and handling potential of the car.