25% of cars in Ballymena driving on ‘dangerous’ tyre pressures

The tyres on almost 2 per cent of cars tested by Michelin in Ballymena were classified as ‘dangerous’. Local news sources report that, at a recent free ‘Fill Up With Air’ promotion hosted by Michelin at Tesco, Ballymena, 158 vehicles had their tyre pressure and condition checked.

44 per cent of the cars passed. 24 per cent were ranked ‘dangerous’ or ‘very dangerous’, 28 per cent were ‘temporarily acceptable’, and 4 per cent were over inflated.

Pressures between 7psi and 14psi below the manufacturer’s recommendation are classified as ‘dangerous’ by Michelin, while 15psi and below under-inflation is considered ‘very dangerous’.

Martin Stuart, events manager for Michelin UK and Ireland, said: “We run these ‘Fill Up With Air’ events to highlight just how important it is to look after your tyres. Underinflated tyres are dangerous, causing harm to control and braking distances, and increasing risk of skidding, aquaplaning, punctures and blow-outs. “They also use more fuel, so making sure they are at the correct pressure and in proper condition saves money and lives.”