ATS Euromaster: Avoidable Tyre Damage Costing Fleets

20 per cent of tyres fitted to major leasing fleet vehicles are being replaced early due to avoidable tyre damage. According to figures published by ATS Euromaster following a review of the tyre replacement cycle across 100,000 lease vehicles, the average remaining tread on tyres removed through damage is 4.8mm. With 1mm of tread equivalent to approximately 4,000 miles, these damaged tyres are achieving less than half their potential life. Across a sample fleet of 25,000 vehicles, this damage is costing over £440,000 each year in wasted mileage potential.

Commenting on the findings, Steve Bury, Head of National Car at ATS Euromaster explained: “Just three causes of tyre damage account for a staggering 81 per cent of the tyres we replace prematurely.  This includes punctures (31 per cent), sidewall damage (27 per cent) and drivers exceeding the 50mph / 50 mile limit on deflated run-flat tyres (22 per cent).”

“In many cases this damage could be avoided, and we are actively encouraging fleet managers to cascade this information back to their company’s drivers, along with three simple steps to help reduce damage.  It’s a win-win situation for everyone,” he adds, “as longer tyre life means reduced cost, downtime, hassle and fewer tyres being disposed of prematurely, which in turns benefits the environment.”