Sinclair smart Servicing
Regular servicing by an authorised smart retailer ensures the best possible care for your car. Our highly trained, skilled technicians use the very latest systems and equipment, keeping your car’s performance and condition at optimum level.
Defective tyre convictions increasing
Court convictions in England and Wales for driving on defective tyres are at a four-year high, new official figures show.
In 2010, 10,475 motorists were convicted – almost 1,000 more than the previous year.
“We are aware that with recent financial pressures, many motorists are delaying the purchase of new tyres,” said Stuart Jackson, the chairman of TyreSafe. “However, some are waiting far too long and are risking their own safety and that of other roads users by going beyond the legal minimum standards.”
Current UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm tread depth across the central three quarters of the tyre, around its entire circumference. Drivers who fail to comply with the regulations face a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre. They also risk seeing a motor insurance claim denied.
However, it seems from a new survey of 2,000 motorists by Confused.com that many people simply don’t know how to keep their tyres roadworthy:
- 57% didn’t know the correct tread depth for their tyres.
- 58% didn’t know the correct pressure of their tyres.
- 87.4% do not change their tyres for winter weather.
“An easy way of checking tyre tread is the 20p check,” said Gareth Kloet at Confused.com. “Place a 20p coin into the main tread of the tyre and if the rim of the coin is covered by the tread this shows it is a legal, roadworthy tyre.”
Taking care of your car in the winter
It’s always wise to plan ahead, especially when it comes to winter car maintenance. You can never tell what the weather will throw at you so it is best to be prepared for all eventualities.
Here are the Institute of the Motor Industry’s top tips for hassle free winter motoring:
- If your vehicle is due for its regular service, don’t put it off. Book it in and get a detailed quote for the service required.
- Monitor fluid levels including engine coolant, anti-freeze, oil and brake fluid. Seek advice if levels are low.
- Ensure your car’s tyre pressures are correct and keep an eye on tread depth, including the spare.
- Check that all the lights and indicators are clean and working properly.
- Ensure your windscreen washer bottle is topped up with washer fluid that won’t freeze.
- Be prepared for a breakdown. Make sure you have a mobile phone, torch, first aid kit, blanket, warm clothes, jump leads and a warning triangle.
Keeping your car in good working order is essential for continued reliability, efficiency and safety. It also significantly protects the car’s re-sale value.
Many garages offer a ‘winter check’ of a vehicle’s fluid levels, antifreeze, brakes and tyres – sometimes for free.
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