US Survey Shows Under-inflation Problem

Despite reports suggesting that under-inflation of Firestone tyres was a contributory factor in Explorer rollovers, a survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that US drivers are not taking the message on board. The pressure of over 11,500 tyres was measured over a two week period and 27 per cent of cars and 32 per cent of vans, SUVs etc. had at least one under-inflated tyre (8 p.

s.i. or more below the manufacturer’s recommended pressure).

Vehicles made after November 2003 will have to incorporate a tyre pressure monitoring system as standard, according to NHTSA rules being drafted at the moment. The survey shows how badly such a system is needed, says the agency..