Skoda launches free tyre check as part of Tyre Safety Month
Studies have shown that as many as 55% of the UK’s motorists do not know the legal minimum tread depth of their tyres. Skoda retailers across the UK, as part of Tyre Safety Month, are advising customers how to check their tyre tread depths quickly and simply, using a 20 pence piece.
Skoda UK became a member of Tyre Safe in February this year and its retail network is backing the ‘Life Saver in Your Pocket’ tyre safety campaign from 1st October. The aim is to show drivers how to check if their tyres are illegal or unsafe, simply by using a 20 pence piece as a convenient tyre tread depth gauge. If the driver can see the inside rim of the 20 pence coin when it is placed in the tyre tread, the tyre may be worn down close to the legal limit and therefore unsafe and illegal to drive on. Skoda will run this free tyre check campaign throughout October to demonstrate to customers how to use this 20 pence piece test.
A recent study highlights the lack of awareness of tyre safety issues amongst UK drivers. Almost 20% of all motorists admitted they have never checked their tread depth and 83% of UK drivers are not aware that the maximum possible fine for each illegal tyre is £2,500. Critically, a lack of tyre safety knowledge and awareness amongst drivers led to 36 tyre-related deaths on Great Britain’s roads in 2008.
John Bower, Head of Aftersales at Skoda UK, comments: “It is vital that drivers are aware of tyre safety and Skoda UK is delighted to support the Tyre Safe campaign to help raise awareness of this important aspect of motoring. Tyre Safety Month gives our retailers an ideal opportunity to raise awareness of this issue to their customers and to offer their advice and expertise. As the manufacturer of happy drivers, our customers expect an exceptional level of service and this campaign demonstrates once again our dedication to our customers’ safety.”
Skoda drivers are encouraged to contact their nearest participating Skoda retailer to arrange an appointment for their free tyre check.
For further information and details of participating retailers Skoda customers should visit skoda.co.uk/drivers/owners.aspx
