The clock is ticking on vehicle maintenance; warns AA

• Tyre faults could strike
• Faulty lights more apparent in winter months
• Driving on dark nights avoided by many

The AA is warning road users to make sure their vehicles are ready for the winter months ahead.

With the recent winding back of our clocks, now may be good time to make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. Tyres, lights, and all-round vision are vital parts of your winter vehicle preparation.

In addition to increased fuel consumption, badly worn or under-inflated tyres can have a negative effect on vehicle handling, especially in the winter months when grip on our roads is naturally reduced. In a recent AA Yonder Driver Poll, nearly a quarter (23%) of respondents said  they relied purely on their tyre pressure warning light to alert them to any tyre defects, with just under half (49%) of younger drivers’ preferring to use the inflator at the local petrol station to maintain their tyre pressures.

Ben Sheridan, AA Patrol of the Year, said: “It’s vital to make sure that your car’s tyres are in good condition. Worn tyres are not only more likely to suffer a blow-out, but in the event of a downpour a worn tyre is likely to aquaplane, meaning a significantly increased stopping distance and loss of control.

“And it’s not just the tread depth to look out for but also any damage or defects such as cracks or bulges. Drivers often forget to check the spare tyre, which can be a problem if you hit a pothole and suffer a puncture only to find that the spare isn’t usable.

“Tyre problems are the number one reason for members to call the AA for help, with more than one tyre-related breakdown every minute – and worryingly the motoring organisation find that around a third of failed tyres have a tread depth below the 1.6mm legal limit. It recommends tyres with a tread depth of 2mm or less should be replaced before embarking on a long journey. Replacing your tyres before they reach the legal limit will also save you from a potential fine and points on your licence”.