Businesses could extend tyre replacement intervals and take advantage of greater efficiency savings if company car and van drivers are encouraged to take greater care of their tyres, advises Michelin’s fleet team.

Michelin has offered advice and tips to help fleets reduce running costs

Michelin proposes fleet managers remind their drivers of four simple steps to extend tyre life, improve uptime, cut running costs and reduce environmental impact.

Tyre pressures – frequently overlooked, with more than 50% said to be running tyres below the recommended pressure. In 2017, 384 car accidents in Britain were linked to illegal, defective or under-inflated tyres. Michelin recommends tyre pressures be checked once a month. Tyres should also be checked before long journeys and when the tyres are cool, to achieve an accurate reading.

Peter Wood, Michelin key account manager, said: “Running on tyres just a few PSI below the manufacturer’s recommended pressures will reduce a vehicle’s fuel efficiency on every journey. The combined savings for fleets could be significant.”

Wheel alignment – poor tracking can cause a vehicle’s handling to be altered, compromising safety. If tyres have come into contact with solid objects, such as kerbs or potholes, or if a tyre is suffering from uneven wear, it is important to get the wheel alignment checked by an expert.

Tyre tread – has a direct impact on the performance and safety of a vehicle. By law, tyres must have at least 1.6mm of remaining tread depth, measured across the central three-quarters of the tyre and all the way round.

Good driving habits – should not be underestimated. Wood added: “Although wear and tear isn’t completely avoidable, drivers can adjust their driving habits to keep tyres in good condition. Excessive braking, acceleration, or constantly stopping and starting can cause tyres to wear much faster, meaning more trips to the fast-fit centre.

“Avoiding uneven road surfaces, such as potholes, and going over speed bumps with care will all help to prevent wheels and tyres from being damaged or knocked out of alignment.”