Driving On Worn Tyres Is False Economy

LUTON, United Kingdom – February 6, 2009: With much of Britain still blanketed by snow, drivers deferring their next car service to beat the economic crunch are taking a big risk with such safety critical components as tyres and brakes.

On icy roads, in temperatures hovering around zero, all the key components of your car need to be in peak condition, especially where safety is concerned.

A recent YouGov survey found that 13 per cent of drivers had put off making repairs to their cars in the last year due to cost.

If you drive a Vauxhall, SAAB or Chevrolet, there is an easy way of making sure all is well and satisfy your peace of mind for just £35. Trained technicians at participating retailers within these networks can put your car through a Winter Safety Check and Top Up, including an external and internal vehicle inspection, plus checks on the underside of the car and under-bonnet.

It covers all safety-critical components, including lights and electrics, brakes, hubs, wheels and tyres.

Although the legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, both RoSPA and Roadsafe recommend that tyres are replaced when the depth falls to 3mm. Research has shown that tyres with a tread depth of 3mm offer 25 per cent better grip in wet conditions than those worn down to the legal limit.

Vauxhall, SAAB and Chevrolet retailers regularly benchmark their tyre prices on all well known brands against the best prices advertised locally by other outlets. Before fitting any new tyres, the technicians will check the tread depth and condition to make sure you do need replacements.

All sizes, speed ratings and tread patterns can be supplied to meet the needs of owners of current and older models. The prices quoted include a new valve, wheel balancing and environmentally friendly disposal of your old tyres.

Once the Winter Safety Check visual inspection has been completed, fluid levels will be checked and topped up where necessary. Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and screenwash are all covered.

The Winter Safety Check offer at participating Vauxhall MasterFit, SAAB and Chevrolet service departments runs until the end of March 2009. No appointment is necessary – simply drive to your nearest authorised retailer and have your car inspected and your tyres checked while you wait. Any additional work identified during the Winter Safety Check will be itemised and the costs of rectification fully quoted.

You will also receive a free Winter Car Care Kit, containing a Sonax window de-icer aerosol, bottle of antifreeze and clear view concentrate, an ice scraper and a chamois pad.