TyreSafe is encouraging drivers to perform regular tyre checks that could provide significant financial savings as the cost-of-living crisis continues to escalate.

This week, prices at the fuel pumps hit eye-watering new highs of more than £1.50 per litre – and that trend is expected to continue to rise amidst global uncertainty around oil supply and costs.

Underinflated tyres require a bigger force to make them turn, leading vehicles to consume more fuel. Tyres inflated to a pressure just 6psi below the recommended inflation could produce a 3% increase in fuel consumption, costing over £600 million to UK drivers every year. That could easily rise to over £1bn if drivers don’t achieve the official fuel consumption figure for their vehicle.

Drivers of electric vehicles will be similarly affected by experiencing reduced range.

There are further potential issues of driving with low tyre pressures. Underinflation causes a 10% reduction in tyre life, meaning drivers will need to replace their tyres more frequently, adding further unnecessary and avoidable expense. In addition, tyres with insufficient air are more likely to suffer from a sudden rapid deflation and premature wear on the outer edges of the tyre.

Most importantly, correct tyre pressure is crucial for optimum braking and cornering performance.  Tyres that are 20% underinflated are considered dangerous to use, while 40% below the recommended inflation are very dangerous, putting drivers and other road users at significant risk. With an estimated 57% of car tyres in the UK at least 4psi below the recommended pressures, the problem is widespread and affecting a large proportion of drivers.

To prevent these unnecessary costs and risks now and in the future, drivers should check their tyres once a month, every month and before long journeys. Drivers should perform these when the tyre is cold and check every tyre using an accurate pressure gauge, regardless of whether their vehicle is fitted with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Drivers can find the correct pressures for their tyres inside the fuel filler cap or in one of the front door sills.

Stuart Jackson, TyreSafe Chair, said: “We’re all feeling the pinch during these challenging times, and need to find ways to reduce unnecessary outgoings. While most households will jump to make cutbacks on groceries, luxuries and other expenses, they neglect to carry out regular tyre checks, leaving them vulnerable to wasted fuel expenses and hefty premature tyre replacement costs. Perhaps most importantly, is the even greater price drivers could face by driving on underinflated tyres, which pose a risk to life. Simply put, checking tyres can save money and lives.”

TyreSafe provides an online pressure-checker tool, which enables drivers to look up the correct pressures for their vehicle. The charity also supplies a wealth of guidance and resources to support drivers in performing regular tyre safety checks.